How to Pair Paint & Paper: A Beginner's Guide

How to Pair Paint & Paper: A Beginner's Guide

How to Pair Paint with Wallpaper: A Guide to Effortless Colour Harmony

We've recently expanded our paint palette and we know the question on everyone’s lips: how do you choose the right paint to pair with your wallpaper?

The secret lies in balance - between bold and subtle, pattern and plain, texture and tone. Here’s our guide to creating spaces where wallpaper and paint work in perfect harmony.

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Image by @noushka_design @darrenchung74

1. Pick a Lead Player

Every room needs a star. If you’ve fallen in love with a statement wallpaper - perhaps a lush botanical print or a maximalist floral let it take centre stage. Then use paint to support, not compete. Pull out one of the softer tones in the design and use it on your walls, woodwork or ceiling to create flow.

2. Think Beyond Matchy-Matchy

Perfect matches can sometimes feel flat. Instead, look for complementary colours that create depth. For example, a wallpaper with warm pink florals might sing when paired with a soft green paint. Contrast, when chosen thoughtfully, makes both elements shine.

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Image @noushka_design

3. Use Paint to Frame

Wallpaper doesn’t always need to cover every wall. Try using it on a feature wall or within panels, then frame it with a co-ordinating paint shade. This trick works beautifully in bedrooms, dining rooms or hallways where you want a little drama without overwhelming the space.

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Image by @arior_design @openhauskitchens

4. Don’t Forget the Fifth Wall

Ceilings are often left white, but they’re a powerful design tool. Pair patterned wallpaper on the walls with a coloured ceiling in a shade lifted directly from the design - it will pull the room together and feel considered from every angle.

5. Test the Pairing First

Our peel & stick paint samples make this effortless. Stick them beside your chosen wallpaper swatch, move them around the room, and watch how light transforms the colours throughout the day. They’re 100% colour-accurate, recyclable, and create 95% less waste than tester pots.

The Joy of Colour, Your Way

We believe decorating should be joyful, sustainable, and deeply personal. With our wallpapers and paint colours you can create spaces that feel as good as they look.

So whether you’re a bold maximalist or a lover of subtle harmony, pairing wallpaper with paint is your chance to tell your story, your way.

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