How do I know what undertones are in paint ?

Deb Allenbaugh
by Deb Allenbaugh
I want to use a gray color, I'm assuming a neutral gray won't have undertones ? I bought what was supposed to be a green but once wall was painted it looks blue. I guess here's the undertone issue !
  7 answers
  • C. D. Scallan C. D. Scallan on Jun 10, 2017

    You can purchase small sample containers , take them home and paint patches on the wall of the room you're painting . That way you can see it in the light you intend to live in , after its dry etc. Use the leftovers for crafting .

  • FL FL on Jun 10, 2017

    Hi Deb! I found a site that explores the whole topic of undertones in paint. I hope it helps! http://www.sensationalcolor.com/understanding-color/theory/understanding-undertones-color-success-060#.WTwQ9MI2xLM

  • Cynthia H Cynthia H on Jun 10, 2017

    Natural lighting often picks up the color. I look at the paint strips they have in the store to look at what the complimentary colors are for clues, but always paint an area with a sample before committing, since it can totally change how it looks in a different light.

  • Suzanne Suzanne on Jun 10, 2017

    If you mix complement colors together you will get a grayish color. Complement color of red is green. Blue is orange.Yellow is purple etc.


  • Suzanne Suzanne on Jun 11, 2017

    Yeah much easier ,this is if you do not have those colors.I am an artist ,just the way my mind works. :)



  • Jane Jane on Jun 11, 2017

    if using paint chips in a store, ALWAYS go to natural light to view the colours! Artificial light is deceiving!

  • 512181 512181 on Jun 13, 2017

    A good paint store should be able to guide you. They will have the formula that is used to make the color. I remember a Sherwin Williams sales person in the store guiding me to get the exact color of gray I was looking for to paint an office.

    He seemed to know which grays would look blue, greenish, etc.