Brands of house paint - terribly scintillating stuff

So I read a lot of blogs, which made me think "hell I can do this stuff"...but I have to say, some out there are just so informative, while mine is currently so-so.  In an effort to "up my game in the blog-o-sphere" I've got to suggest a link to The Design Sponge, particularly this recent posting.  


Grace from design sponge just posted a very informative listing of paint brands and her thoughts.  While I will let you check her posting, I will take the list she's already started and slap my own flavor onto it, adding my own "Quinsy je ne sais quoi", which I hope to patent someday soon.

In a future posting I will link to some of my fav shades in each brand, but you should put your own stamp on paint - custom colors rock hard, especially in your home sanctuary.


Here goes:


Behr:   I have to say, Home Depot paints are value for money.  They have added new hues and options for applications in the recent years, so while I was hesitant at first, Behr has changed my mind - they are vibrant and a good option for pretty much any project. 


Benjamin Moore:   BM (sorry, couldn't help myself) is the standard that folks seem to ask me to use.  They have a good selection of "neutral" non-beige colors, which I think can warm  up a room significantly.   


California Paints:   This line offers the all important low VOC (volatile organic compounds) interior paints.   For those of you wondering, we prefer low or zero VOC paints because the reduced toxins benefit everyone, including those with allergies and chemical sensitivities.  They help the environment, as they reduce landfill, groundwater and ozone depleting contaminants.  They are remarkably effective, ad low- VOC products perform well in terms of coverage, scrubability and hideability (covering flaws on previous coats from non-Pearl Painters :)).  They are also water-based which is so important for easy cleanup with soap and warm water.  There is little or no hazardous fumes, and that low odor during application makes for a stress free application process for the homeowner - best of all, there is no odor even when it's dried, so painted areas can be occupied sooner, with no odor complaints.  We've all had a "paint induced headache at one time or another...)


OK back to paints:


Farrow & Ball:   Hands down, the best selection for interior paints I know of.  There isn't a hue in the bunch you wouldn't like - they all have a depth and warmth that is tangible.  They apply well, cover superbly and the color range is so sophisticated it can cover Victorians or modern homes equally. Can's say enough about the old F&B...


Hudson Paint:   I think of Hudson when I'm painting a child's room or a creche, nursery, play area - because this is the go-to paint for chalkboard paint. More hues than black & green, you can get chalkboard paint now in pretty much whatever shade you desire.  Consider yourself warned however, if Junior thinks any wall is "chalk friendly"...


Martha Stewart Living Paint:   Martha’s has what I consider "Martha colors" - like her show (and YES I've seen the show) they are muted and understated.  I actually find them calming, so a good option if you need to paint the inside of a squad car.  


Montana Spray Paint:    Clearly for "smaller" projects, but this stuff is everywhere...and have a good selection of paint colors.  What I like about Montana is the spray can actually has a good nozzle that doesn't clog, which can be annoying if you let the can dry between coats.  If your local supplier doesn't carry this, email me @ Peralpaingintsf@gmail.com and I will help you find them.

Milk Paint:    I feel like this stuff is for older interiors  - there is something very "old school" about them.  I've used this on some Painted Ladies with very appealing results.

Voilà!  :

The Real Milk Paint Company:    I confess I haven't used this brand but I've heard very positive things about it...let me know your experience with it if you've happened to try it.  
From Grace @ Design Sponge I understand that their color range is a little limited, but it appears to be a good source.


Valspar:   I think this stuff is ok, nothing over the top great but pretty damn good.  Only at Lowe's so if you like that shop, you're in luck.  I think their colors are very sharp in a good way, and that they have a good range.  You won't be blown away, nor will you be disappointed.  I consider this option to be viable but not wow-able.


Thanks to Grace for the prompt to add my 2 cents to her thorough blog!


"Q"