Paint Mixing Northampton: Crown Paint Mixed to Order
If you are searching for paint mixing Northampton, you can bring a colour to our counter and walk out with Crown paint mixed to order. We are a family-run builders merchant and decorating store that has served the town for more than 30 years, and we mix Crown (including Crown Trade), Sadolin and Sandtex in store, with thousands of colours to choose from. Here is how it works, what to bring and how to work out how much you need.
How paint mixing and tinting works
Mixed paint starts as a base, a tin of paint made to take colour. The colour itself comes from concentrated tints, measured in small, precise amounts according to the formula for the shade you have chosen. The tin then goes on a shaker so the tint is spread evenly through the paint.
Because the formula is fixed, the same colour code in the same product and finish should give you the same shade next time. That is handy if you are touching up a room later or if a job runs over and you need another tin.
See the full list of brands and products on our what we mix page, or read more about our paint mixing service.
What to bring for colour matching
People often search for paint colour matching near me when they have a shade in mind but no name for it. The easiest way to get the right colour is to come prepared:
- A colour name or code: the best option. Crown colours have names and reference codes, so bring the code from a colour card, a website or an old tin label.
- The old tin: if you have the empty or half-used tin, bring it in. The label usually carries the product, finish and colour reference.
- A sample: a fan deck chip or a colour card helps you and us compare under the shop lights.
Colours look different on a phone screen, under warm bulbs and in daylight. If you are unsure, check the shade against your room in daylight before committing to a big order.
Browse shades before you visit on our paint colours page.
Crown Trade paint near me: trade vs retail
If you have been looking for crown trade paint near me, the trade range is worth knowing about. Trade paints are made with professional decorators in mind, while retail ranges are aimed at home decorators. Which suits you depends on the job, so ask at the counter and we will talk you through it. More detail is on our Crown Trade page, and the manufacturer's own site is Crown Paints.
Whichever range you choose, the finish matters as much as the colour. In general terms:
- Matt: low sheen and hides minor wall imperfections well. A popular choice for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Eggshell: a soft, low sheen that is easier to wipe than matt. Often used on walls in busier areas and on woodwork for a subtler look.
- Satin: a mid sheen, commonly used on woodwork such as doors and skirting.
- Gloss: the highest shine, the traditional choice for woodwork. It shows up surface flaws, so preparation matters.
Always check the tin for where a product is designed to be used, whether that is interior walls, wood, metal or kitchens and bathrooms.
How much paint do you need?
Over-buying wastes money and under-buying means a second trip. Use this simple method:
- Measure the walls: multiply the width of each wall by its height in metres to get square metres (m²), then add them together.
- Take off doors and windows: subtract their area, roughly width times height for each.
- Multiply by the number of coats: most jobs need two coats, and more if you are making a big colour change.
- Check the coverage on the tin: every product lists how many m² a litre covers. Divide your total m² by that figure to get the litres you need.
For example, a room with 40m² of wall that needs two coats is 80m² of painting. If the tin says a litre covers 12m², you need just under 7 litres. Porous, bare or textured surfaces drink more paint, so allow a little extra.
Paint mixing FAQs
Can you mix Crown paint while I wait?
Paint is mixed to order in store. Pop in or call us on 01604 720272 to check timings for your order.
Can you match a colour from a photo?
A photo on a screen is not a reliable reference. A colour code, the old tin or a physical sample gives a far better result.
Where can I buy Crown paint in Northampton?
We mix Crown and Crown Trade in store on Ashburnham Road. See our Crown Trade page for the range.
Which finish should I use on skirting boards?
Satin and gloss are the usual choices for woodwork, with eggshell for a lower sheen. Check the tin to make sure the product suits wood.
Visit us
Customers come to us from across town, including Kingsthorpe, Abington, Duston and Weston Favell. RockBottom Northampton, 2 Ashburnham Road, Northampton NN1 4QY. Open Monday to Friday 8am to 5:30pm and Saturday 9am to 5:30pm, closed Sunday. Call us on 01604 720272 or bring your colour code in and we will get your Crown paint mixed. While you are here, pick up brushes and rollers from the decorating range. Trade and public welcome.