Reminder: How NOT to Test Paint Colors

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I asked my client if it was ok to use her photos in a post today that I wanted to write as a reminder to others how NOT to test paint color samples. She laughed and agreed.  Anything to help others.She told me she had tested my suggestion of Grant Beige in her home, but that it looked too light. She sent me a photo of her paint samples:I explained how of course the sample looked light- it was against a dark gold color and the other colors surrounding it was not giving her an accurate view of how the paint would look. The best way to sample a paint color is to paint on a poster board with two coats and move it around day and night to see how well it is working with your furnishings in daylight and evening light. A plain white sheet of paper should also be used behind the poster board sample between the wall and poster board. That is so you are not comparing the old paint with the new.Color is perceived in context and not in isolation. It is affected by the colors used next to it. A good example of this is that when you paint the sample right on the wall, the new color will be affected by the existing wall color. It is the wrong way to perceive the actual color. The photo below is a great example of how NOT to test paint colors for your home:

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So, it is important to test how the paint will look in the room (lighting, furniture, etc.), before you invest in an entire can of paint. It is a pain I know. But so very worth the extra step to be sure you will love the color in your home.  Is anyone else guilty of still testing paint colors this way? Do you think you will try sampling color this way next time?Thanks for stopping by my decorating friends!