COLOR BAGGAGE UNPACKED

Ronald Mcdonald House: Vintage Hospitality In Red
  • Article tag: #ColorTransformation
  • Article comments count: 0 comments
Ronald Mcdonald House: Vintage Hospitality In Red
Read about the captivating transformation of Ronald McDonald House, as the power of red is unleashed, creating warm and engaging environments for families in need. Experience the joyous impact of this inspiring design story, where the vibrant energy of red infuses new life into the space."
Article author: Gretchen Schauffler
The Harmony of Wall Color: A Musical Approach to Home Design, Walls, Body and Soul.
  • Article comments count: 0 comments
The Harmony of Wall Color: A Musical Approach to Home Design, Walls, Body and Soul.
Color harmony is more than just a visually appealing combination of colors; it's an application of color theory principles that can influence user experiences, create brand identity, and enhance accessibility. In this article, we delve into the world of color harmony, exploring its fundamental elements, such as the color wheel, hue, value, and saturation. We also discuss how colors can evoke emotions and create associations, much like music does. Whether you're designing a home or a website, understanding color harmony can help you create spaces that resonate with both body and soul.
Article author: Gretchen Schauffler
The Enduring Magic of Devine Color: Share Your Story
  • Article comments count: 0 comments
The Enduring Magic of Devine Color: Share Your Story
Hello from Gretchen Schauffler I'm Gretchen Schauffler, and I'm excited to share how Devine Color continues to live on. Although Devine Color as a brand no longer exists today, its legacy endures in the hearts of those who loved it. For those new to this journey, Devine Color, my beloved paint line that I called "Color Therapy From The Northwest," touched countless lives and walls over the past 25 years. My professional journey began when I founded Devine Color™, Color Therapy For the Northwest, in 1999. This trailblazing brand empowered homeowners to take charge of their paint color experiences. After its acquisition by Valspar Paint and then Sherwin Williams, I walked away with a 5-year non-compete, launching DIP Design Is Personal® in 2018 and now Color Baggage®. The Evolution of Color The paint industry has undergone significant changes with the advent of new technologies and environmental regulations. Over the last 25 years, new ecological requirements and supply chains have altered color formulas and paint formulations. While all paint companies have attempted to match the old Devine colors, these versions often lack the original harmony because they were recreated using computer-based formulas rather than my original harmony-based formulations and exclusive resin. Why Devine Colors Are Still Beloved Despite these changes, people still crave the original Devine Colors. These colors transformed empty spaces into cohesive, beautiful reflections of their lives, not just a single wall or room. My color work as an artist and paint color expert created seamless, stunning environments that are impossible to forget or live without. Read Seattle Times Throw-back Article Your Stories Matter After receiving countless emails from loyal customers who shared their stories with me, I knew it was time to create a new, beautiful universe again. I wanted people to experience that divine love-at-first-sight relationship with themselves, their homes, baggage, and all.   Harmony Comes First at Color Baggage Once my non-compete in the paint business ended in 2020, I launched Color Baggage, building upon the beloved legacy of Devine Color. Color Baggage offers a new paint line and an illuminating color philosophy with one-of-a-kind COLORWRIGHT™ paint formulations crafted in a lab, harmonized by me in my art studio, and tested on walls before they go on to yours.   Creating Spaces That Reflect You Choosing Color Baggage means you're not just painting your walls but creating spaces that reflect the best version of yourself and your home for years to come. My latest finish, the Ultra Lime Seashell-Matte™, is my magnum opus. It is the epitome of color luxury for your walls, with a natural organic richness that resembles the smooth limestone qualities of a seashell. This unique finish creates a gorgeous, super matte texture that's unparalleled in today's market.   Please Share Your Devine Color Stories I invite you to share your Devine Color stories and how much you loved them. Your experiences are a testament to the enduring power of color to transform lives. Feel free to contact me at gretchen@colorbaggage.com and share your stories.   Why Share Your Stories? Sharing your Devine Color stories helps us celebrate the legacy of a brand that changed how people interact with color. It also allows us to understand how color has impacted your life and how we can continue to inspire and transform spaces through Color Baggage.   How to Share Your Stories Email Me: Send your stories and memories to gretchen@colorbaggage.com. Social Media: Share your stories on social media using hashtags like #DevineColorLegacy #ColorBaggage #ShareYourStory. Comment Below: Leave a comment on this post with your favorite Devine Color memory. By sharing your stories, you help keep the spirit of Devine Color alive and inspire others to find their own unique color journey with Color Baggage. I am currently remastering my Devine Color formulas. If you have a specific request, I will prioritize it. From my bag to yours, Gretchen Schauffler
Article author: Gretchen Schauffler
A New Era of Delight: These Playful Wallpaper Patterns Will Steal Your Heart
  • Article comments count: 0 comments
A New Era of Delight: These Playful Wallpaper Patterns Will Steal Your Heart
Step into a world where nostalgia meets modernity, where Gretchen Schauffler, the visionary behind Colorwright™ and Devine Color™, invites us to explore her Mainland Wallpaper Collection—a vibrant celebration of heritage, nature, and the timeless charm of bygone eras. As we delve into this captivating array of patterns and hues, we'll discover how Schauffler's Puerto Rican roots and Pacific Northwest inspiration come together to create a truly unique aesthetic that speaks to the heart of home decor enthusiasts. The Colorwright™ Mainland Wallpaper Collection is a testament to the power of reimagining the past through a modern lens. Gretchen Schauffler, a Puerto Rican artist who has found her creative haven in the Pacific Northwest, brings a fresh perspective to the world of interior design with this innovative collection. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant patterns of the '50s, '60s, and '70s, Schauffler infuses each design with a contemporary twist that speaks to today's design-savvy homeowners. The Allure Of Playful Patterns Playful wallpaper patterns have the unique ability to breathe life into a room. They can evoke nostalgia, spark creativity, and even tell a story. As we embrace a new era of design, these patterns invite homeowners to express their individuality and create spaces that reflect their personalities. Whether it’s a bold floral motif, a whimsical animal print, or a retro geometric design, each wallpaper choice can transform a mundane wall into a captivating focal point. Nostalgia Meets Modern Design The charm of playful wallpaper often lies in its ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary aesthetics. Many designs draw inspiration from past decades, such as the vibrant patterns of the '60s and '70s, while incorporating modern sensibilities. This fusion allows homeowners to celebrate their memories while creating a fresh and inviting atmosphere. For instance, a wallpaper featuring retro florals can evoke childhood memories of a grandparent's home, reminding us of the warmth and comfort found in those cherished spaces. Nature-Inspired Designs Nature has always been a rich source of inspiration for artists and designers. Wallpaper patterns that highlight elements from the natural world—such as florals, leaves, and animals—can create a soothing and harmonious environment. These designs not only bring the beauty of the outdoors inside but also contribute to a sense of well-being. Studies have shown that nature-inspired decor can reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it an ideal choice for spaces like bedrooms and living rooms. For more on the importance of nature in interior design, check out this article on biophilic design. For instance, wallpapers featuring botanical prints can create a serene oasis, while playful animal motifs can add a touch of whimsy and fun to children's rooms or play areas. The connection to nature is particularly important in today's fast-paced world, where many seek refuge in calming and restorative environments. Cultural Heritage and Personal Expression Wallpaper patterns often reflect cultural heritage and personal stories. Designs inspired by specific cultures or historical eras can transport us to different places and times. For example, a wallpaper featuring traditional Puerto Rican motifs can celebrate one's heritage while infusing a space with vibrant colors and patterns.  This connection to culture allows homeowners to create spaces that resonate with their identity and values.  Moreover, the act of choosing wallpaper is a form of personal expression.  Each pattern selected can convey a message about who we are and what we love. From bold geometric designs that showcase a modern aesthetic to soft, pastel florals that evoke a sense of nostalgia, the wallpaper we choose can speak volumes about our tastes and experiences.To learn more about the influence of cultural heritage in design, visit Dezeen. The Power of Color Color plays a crucial role in the impact of wallpaper patterns. Bright, bold colors can energize a space and create a sense of excitement, while softer hues can promote calmness and tranquility. The right color palette can dramatically alter the mood of a room, making it essential to consider how colors interact with one another and with the overall design scheme. For instance, a wallpaper with a lively, multicolored pattern can serve as a statement piece in a neutral room, drawing the eye and creating a dynamic focal point. Conversely, a subtle, monochromatic design can provide a sophisticated backdrop that allows other decor elements to shine. Making a Statement Incorporating playful wallpaper patterns into your home is an opportunity to make a bold statement. Whether you choose to cover an entire room or create an accent wall, the right wallpaper can transform your space into a reflection of your personality and style. For those looking to experiment, consider mixing and matching different patterns for a unique and eclectic look. This playful approach can create a visually stimulating environment that sparks joy and creativity. "As we enter a new era of delight in interior design, my playful wallpaper patterns offer a delightful way to express individuality, celebrate life, history, and create inviting spaces. From nature-inspired designs to bold, nostalgic motifs, there’s a world of possibilities waiting to be explored inside your home."—Gretchen So, whether you're redecorating a single room or embarking on a complete home makeover, consider the transformative power of wallpaper. With playful patterns that will steal your heart, you can create a space that not only looks beautiful but also feels like home. Embrace the joy of design and let your walls tell your story, just as the vibrant, wise grandmothers who inspired these designs would have wanted. Remember, if melody is the story, harmony is the setting, and harmony comes in color. As you reflect on your colorful relationship with the past and your grandmothers, consider how a simple change in color can transform your space and your emotions. May you find the perfect harmony that resonates with your soul.  Learn about Chromatic Wisdom From my bag to yours, Gretchen Become part of our colorful baggage talk: Share Your Story: If you have a favorite color memory or a story about how color has impacted your life, share it with us in the comments below. Connect with Us: Follow us on social media and use hashtags like #ColorBaggage #DevineColor #ChromaticWisdom to join the conversation. Get in Touch: If you have questions or need personalized color advice, feel free to email me at gretchen@colorbaggage.com. From My Bag To Yours, G
Article author: Gretchen Schauffler
12 Books to Ignite Your Artistic Spirit
  • Article comments count: 0 comments
12 Books to Ignite Your Artistic Spirit
In the vast landscape of human expression, books are like campfires - writers light up the dark, helping others gather around, taking enlightenment, connection, and understanding. At Color Baggage, we believe in the transformative power of creativity, and we've curated a collection of books that have been guiding lights on our creative journey.
Article author: Gretchen Schauffler
Finding True Love in a Bucket of Paint
  • Article comments count: 0 comments
Finding True Love in a Bucket of Paint
For Gretchen Schauffler, color has been more than a passion - it's the very fabric through which she weaves life's awakenings and truths. In this deeply soulful personal narrative, the Puerto Rico native recounts how her lifelong infatuation with color's transformative magic sparked an unstoppable journey from childhood wonder to self-empowered expression. Through vivid memories of sunrises framing "true love" from the backseat to her complicated inheritance of mother's red lipstick to an unexpected red table's lessons in resilience, Schauffler paints a poetic exploration of what it means to manifest one's most authentic desires. This is the untamed story of how one indomitable force alchemized a bucket of paint into a kaleidoscope of personal epiphanies about courage, self-acceptance and creating the life you crave. Learn more about Gretchen Schauffler's background and passion for color on our About page
Article author: Gretchen Schauffler
The Legacy Of Your Colorful Memories
  • Article tag: Belonging
  • Article comments count: 0 comments
The Legacy Of Your Colorful Memories
Hello Colorful Readers! When I first came to Oregon straight from Puerto Rico, I was so homesick; it was hard to bear. As an immigrant, you are not only faced with the challenge of adapting to a new language and culture. Immigrants come riddled with nostalgia. Nothing is more nostalgic than the smells and food we grow up eating. It's why my husband loves chips and toast, or I love plantains. There is also nothing more exciting about another culture than trying new foods.I remember someone offering me a snack and asking if I wanted to have some yogurt. I was excited to try it because I loved the letter Y in English. You don't have a mellow flute-like sound from a letter like that in Spanish. As a matter of fact, Y has the opposite sound. It's curt sounding, like a J. My favorite word in the whole English language was the word Yellow. The word yogurt sounded super exciting! Except, I hated it. Once stirred, the yogurt was a cold rubbery shade of pink, and it tasted like sour milk mixed in with sweet strawberry candy. Calling it a snack made it even more confusing because snacks back at home were always salty or savory treats. Only desserts like flan, Tembleque, or Arroz Dulce, were sweet. I didn't like to eat it, but I would pretend to because by opening the cup of yogurt and, with a spoon, stirring the sweet fruit at the bottom with the sour milk-like custard until it all blended together, I was reliving a childhood memory that eased the pain of being homesick all the time. The stirring of yogurt reminded me of when my grandfather used to repaint all the walls of his house white every year before Christmas and would let me stir the paint. When I grew up, Christmas was not just for family get-togethers. The tradition was to raid your friends and neighbors at night! Asaltos or Assaults, a Puerto Rican version of Christmas Caroling, occur late at night when you're asleep. Friends and neighbors gather outside your home with musical instruments very quietly. They break out into singing and playing instruments until everyone in your house, including kids and grandparents that live with you, gets out of bed, opens the door, and lets everyone in! A trail of people pours into your house singing. Other neighbors, who are awake or awoken by the music, may join in. You are happy to see them because you are well prepared. Not only are your walls freshly painted, and the house looks sparkling with Christmas lights, your bar, and kitchen are fully stocked. While singing, eating, drinking, and laughing, everyone decides which house to hit next! The family, who was robbed, grabs their musical instruments, traditionally percussion devices easy for anyone to play, and joins the Asalto. The "parranda" or "party parade" continues until dawn. He would paint the entire month of November. On the one hand, he had his rum and coke; on the other, his brush, and with every brushstroke, I anticipated a wave of friends and neighbors filling up the house in the middle of the night, drinking and dancing till dawn. My job was to help him stir the paint. Back in Oregon, I was so riddled with nostalgia; it was hard to bear. I found myself eating yogurt all the time to stir and relive that childhood experience. Little did I know until I wrote this book that Daniel Carasso was the father of modern yogurt. His father, Isaac, began selling the stuff in Barcelona, naming the venture after young Daniel, the eldest child and only boy in the family whose name in Catalan was "Danon," or "Danny." After World War Two, Mr. Carasso changed the company name to Dannon, which had a better ring to American ears, and to make the rather sour product more appealing to American taste buds, he and his partners decided in 1947 to add strawberry jam. "Fruit on the Bottom" was enough to turn an obscure ethnic food into a favorite American snack.No wonder I hated the strawberry jam in the yogurt. It was as if my Spaniard taste buds knew the strawberry jam was not meant to be there because, wouldn't you know it, my grandfather's surname or mother's maiden name, is, Artau, is Catalan. My birth name is Gretchen Lizzette Rosario Artau. I was also destined to recreate a Yogurt experience in America in a girl-paint way! I had no idea that when I named Devine Color, COlor Therapy From The Northwest, With Paint That Went On Like Yogurt and Looked Like Chiffon I was part of a bigger legacy, or that Devine Color would create a legacy of its own. Which you can read about here.My Devine Color paint spoke for itself. It went on like yogurt, even though not one had ever painted it with yogurt. My personal experience became a means to belonging and connection. Remember, if melody is the story, harmony is the setting, and harmony comes in color. As you reflect on your colorful legacy, consider how a simple change in color can transform your space and your emotions. May you find the perfect harmony that resonates with your soul.  Learn about Chromatic Wisdom From my bag to yours, Gretchen Become part of our colorful baggage talk: Share Your Story: If you have a favorite color memory or a story about how color has impacted your life, share it with us in the comments below. Connect with Us: Follow us on social media and use hashtags like #ColorBaggage #DevineColor #ChromaticWisdom to join the conversation. Get in Touch: If you have questions or need personalized color advice, feel free to email me at gretchen@colorbaggage.com. I bet you have some colorful memories to unpack....From My Bag To Yours, G
Article author: Gretchen Schauffler