FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

1. Choosing your colour

Start with the feeling you want to create. Light and fresh, warm and cosy, or bold and playful? Our Find your Shade Quiz helps you discover shades that suit your style and space. Then try your favourites at home with real colour samples.

Shade Essentials brings together 46 carefully selected colours, while Shade by Kelly features 17 signature colours selected by interior designer Kelly Claessens. Mix and match between the two collections to create a palette that's completely yours.

Absolutely, and we recommend it! Our A5 colour samples are coated with real Shade paint and cost €3 each. Hold them up in your own space before committing to a colour.

A5 samples are ideal when you want to test specific colours in your room. Fan decks are handy for browsing a collection and comparing several shades side by side. Already have a shortlist? Go for the A5 samples.

Move your samples between different walls and check them in daylight and artificial light. Compare them with your flooring, furniture and fabrics. Give yourself a few days before making your final choice.

Not necessarily. Screens display colours differently, and the light in your room changes how a shade appears. For the most reliable impression, check a real colour sample in your own space.

Please do! Pair a neutral with a bolder accent or layer colours from the same family. You can combine shades from both collections. Need help finding your combination? Try our quiz or colour advice.

2. Choosing your paint

It depends on what you're painting and the finish you want. Walls, ceilings, doors and furniture can require different products. Use our paint selection guidance on the product pages, and check the intended surface before ordering.

Different finishes can create different looks and have different practical properties. Check each Shade paint's product page for its finish, suitable surfaces and care instructions. Still unsure? Contact us before ordering.

Choose a product specifically suitable for the surface and the wear it will receive. Preparation and primer can be especially important on wood, MDF and previously painted surfaces. Check the product instructions before you begin.

Some surfaces need extra resistance to moisture, condensation or frequent cleaning. Use our Washable Wall Paint and never paint over an unresolved moisture problem. Check the product's recommended applications before ordering.

Measure the height and width of each surface, calculate the total area in square metres and allow for the number of coats. Coverage varies by product and surface. Use the coverage information or calculator on the relevant product page.

It depends on the surface and its condition. New or absorbent surfaces, stains and glossy existing finishes may need specific preparation or a primer. A tinted primer can also help create a more even base under certain colours. Follow the primer advice for your chosen paint and surface.

3. Painting & application

Two coats are often a useful starting point, but coverage depends on the colour, surface and paint type. Some deep colours or dramatic colour changes may require an additional coat. Always follow the specific product instructions.

Dry to the touch doesn't always mean ready for another coat. The correct recoat time depends on the Shade paint, temperature, humidity and ventilation. Follow the time stated in the product's technical information.

Stir thoroughly and check the colour against your order before painting. Cut in around edges, then roll the main surface in overlapping sections, keeping a wet edge. Use the tools and application method recommended for your paint.

For a short break between coats, you may be able to wrap your tools airtight to keep them from drying out. For final cleaning, follow the instructions for your particular paint and dispose of residues responsibly.

Our painting guide walks you through preparation, masking, priming, painting and fixing common mistakes. Always combine these general tips with the technical instructions for the Shade product you're using.

4. Orders & delivery

At the moment we ship to Belgium and the Netherlands.

Shipping depends on the items in your order and the destination. Your final shipping cost is shown at checkout before you pay.

Delivery times depend on the products ordered and the destination. Please check the current delivery information during checkout and in your order confirmation.

If tracking is available for your shipment, you'll receive the tracking details when your parcel is dispatched. Check your shipping confirmation for updates.

Please contact us as soon as possible with your order number. We'll check whether your order can still be changed or cancelled. Once processing has started, changes may no longer be possible.

Paint orders are subject to specific return conditions. Each Shade paint order is personalized and custom mixed.

We're sorry if something isn't right. Contact us as soon as possible with your order number and clear photos of the packaging and products. We'll help you find a solution.

5. Colour advice

You can choose between an online colour consultation and colour advice at home. Both are designed to help you make confident colour choices for your space.

Online advice is a focused 30-minute video call. At-home advice is a more in-depth session in your space, lasting up to two hours. Check the service pages for the exact scope and availability.

That depends on the service you book. Each colour advice page explains what's included, what to prepare and what you can expect afterwards. Choose the option that best suits your project.

Choose your preferred colour advice service and follow the booking instructions on its page. You'll find the practical details there too.

Online colour advice may be a good option if you're based further away. At-home visits depend on location and availability. Check the relevant service page or contact us to discuss your project.

6. About Shade

We work with our paint production partner in Belgium. You can read more about our approach and the people behind Shade on our website.

Yes!

We believe in sharing clear, specific information rather than making vague promises. Visit our Sustainability page to learn more about the measures and choices behind Shade.