The Scoop On Paint Costs

Quality: More Than Just a Price Tag

At Color Baggage, we empower you to take control of your color experience. It starts with recognizing that you have "color baggage"—those powerful color attractions you've loved since you first saw them and continue to feel throughout your life. No matter the fleeting trends, these color relationships resonate like true love. They connect you to a sense of belonging, beauty, and a feeling that's as good as it looks because when it comes to creating harmony, we believe in starting from within you.

Our Devine Color's quality, value, and emotional resonance come from our unique color harmony, which is unmatchable in every way.

Paint brands are like cars.

While all follow the same regulations and use similar parts, they perform differently depending on cost and craftsmanship. When it comes to professional paint jobs, the real story lies beneath the surface of the color you choose. Paint material costs, quality, and color formulations are unique to each paint company. Premium paint is premium because of higher quality materials. Period. There is absolutely no reason a painter should assume you are not worthy of premium paint unless there are hidden costs in his bid that have to do with paint.

Take charge of your color experience by knowing what you are buying.

Good Enough vs. What You Want

• Paint accounts for only 15-20% of your total cost
• Labor makes up 75-85% of the investment
• Using premium paints adds cost but delivers maximum value
• Discuss premium quality with your paint company, not your painter.

Color Matching

Statistically speaking, a 10% color variance rate difference (industry standard) becomes exponentially significant when applied to large wall surfaces impacted by:

1. Sheen variations
2. Surface texture
3. Ambient lighting
4. Surrounding colors

These factors make it nearly impossible to achieve a perfect match, even with advanced technology.

WARNING: 

When a painter tells you a paint color match will be close enough take charge of your own color experience, and ask them this: "Will you guarantee your work and repaint after the paint dries and cures for three weeks for free if your color match is  off?"

They won't, and neither will any paint company you call. 

THINK FABRIC!

Paint color quality, reflection, depth, and character are a lot like fabric.  Think brown leather versus a "pleather" synthetic fabric. A small swatch will look comparable, but a whole sofa won't. The depth, reflection, and character of the color depend on its "material," which keeps color quality and longevity steady, stable, and true. Imagine your paint job is like getting a custom-made sofa, and you have two fabric options: 

The "Luxury Fabric" ($95/yard):

• Superior Quality: It's made from high-quality materials like silk, wool, or linen—soft, durable, and with a beautiful texture and drape.
• Perfect Color: The color is rich, vibrant, and exactly what you envisioned.
• Longevity: This fabric will withstand wear and tear, resist fading, and maintain its beauty for years.
• Value: There is always a volume discount from the manufacturer.

The "Budget Fabric" ($60/yard): 

• Lower Quality: It's likely made from synthetic materials like polyester or a cotton blend—rougher, less durable, and with a less luxurious look.
• "Close Enough" Color: The color is a "match" but might not be an exact replica—slightly off in tone or saturation.
• Shorter Lifespan: This fabric might show wear and tear more quickly, fade over time, and need replacing sooner.
• Upfront Cost: You save money upfront with the "budget fabric. 

The Risk:

• The "budget fabric" won't look or feel as good.
• It might not wear well, requiring you to reupholster sooner.
• The color won't be exactly what you wanted, leading to long-term dissatisfaction.

The Bottom Line:

The "luxury fabric" might cost more initially but provides superior comfort, beauty, and durability, making it a better value in the long run.

Be shaken and stirred With Color Harmony!

Discover how Gretchen Schauffler's Colorwright process produces unmatchable color harmonies that enhance your home and happiness (here).