Find Your Perfect Paint Colour: How to Use Olympic Paints' Sample Pots with Confidence

Choosing a paint colour might seem simple at first, until you realise how different a shade can look in morning light versus afternoon shadows. That “warm grey” you saw online might suddenly look a bit blue. And that bold feature wall you imagined? It might feel overwhelming in person.

That’s why we offer affordable, easy-to-use paint samples, giving you the chance to test colours in your own space, with your own light, before committing to the whole tin.

Whether you’re painting a single wall or refreshing your whole home, here’s how our samples can help you make the right choice.

Before-and-after photos are inspiring, but when it comes to your home, it’s all about context.

Lighting, furniture, flooring, and even ceiling height can dramatically affect how a paint colour looks and feels. Testing a sample on your actual wall helps you:

• See the true colour in real lighting conditions
• Compare shades side by side
• Understand how a finish (e.g. matt vs sheen) changes the look
• Gain confidence in your decision before investing in full tins

It’s a small step that saves money, time, and disappointment down the line.

We offer handy sample pots of most colours in the range across popular finishes like:

• Suburban Bliss – Smooth Matt: For a soft, non-reflective look ideal for bedrooms and living rooms
• Natural Elegance – Satin Sheen: For a smooth, washable finish with a gentle shine, great for high-traffic areas
• Rugged Beauty – Finely Textured: Adds subtle dimension and hides surface imperfections

These samples are affordable and available online.

1. Narrow Down Your Top Colour Choices

Start by using the VibrAInt Colour Lab to explore shades by room, vibe, or palette. Choose 2–4 colours that appeal to you, including one or two wild cards.

You’ll be surprised how different colours feel once they’re on your wall.

2. Test on a Large, White Surface (or Directly on the Wall)

We recommend painting at least an A4-sized swatch directly on your wall or on a piece of white card or poster board.

Test in multiple areas:

• One near a window (natural light)
• One in a shadowy corner
• One near your flooring or key furniture

Pro tip: Avoid testing next to existing coloured walls. Strong background tones can throw your perception off. White backing gives the most accurate reading.

3. Let It Dry, Then View It at Different Times of Day

Paint colour shifts as light changes throughout the day. Check your sample in:

• Morning light
• Afternoon light
• Artificial evening lighting

You’ll start to notice subtle undertones that weren’t obvious at first.

4. Consider Your Finish

Different finishes reflect light differently. For example

• Matt finishes absorb light and soften bold colours
• Sheen finishes reflect light, making colours appear richer or more saturated
• Textured finishes add character and depth

Use the same finish in your sample that you plan to use on your walls for the most accurate preview.

5. Sit With It for a Few Days

Live with your samples for at least 48-72 hours. Observe how they make you feel. Do you keep gravitating toward one shade? Does one feel more relaxing in your bedroom or more energising in your kitchen?

Paint colour isn’t just visual. It’s emotional. Let your gut reaction guide you.

Once you’ve found your winner, head to your nearest Olympic Paints stockist or shop online and order your paint with confidence.

Need help? Our colour consultants can guide you through the process, from sample to full-room application, and help match colours to your existing décor.

The best paint transformations start with smart decisions, and samples are your secret weapon. Olympic Paints gives you the tools to experiment, explore, and express yourself without the guesswork.

• Start your journey by exploring the VibrAInt Colour Lab
• Pick up samples in your top shades and finishes
• Test them in your space, your light, your way
• Paint with confidence

Inspired to find your perfect match? Visit olympicpaints.co.za to browse colours and order samples.