Paint Samples

The best way to experience our colours before taking the plunge is with a true-to-colour paint sample (or two, or five).

To help you narrow down your shortlist of shades, we have two types of sample. For our signature colours , you can choose between our classic 100ml sample pots, and our paper paint swatches which are conveniently pre-painted and ready to be placed on the wall. For our Archive collection we exclusively offer paper paint swatches.

With these two different styles available, you can try every colour we’ve ever made and sample to your heart’s content.

Browse all Colours

Sample Pots

Whether it comes to you in our smallest samples or our biggest tins, our paint is rigorously tested to the highest standards of colour accuracy and quality, giving you the best possible idea of your finished result. Available in our signature shades .

1. PICK
Add samples of your favourite colours straight to your basket from our colours page, place an order for as many sample pots as you like, then sit back and wait for your free delivery!

2. PAINT
Rather than applying straight to the wall, we recommend applying two coats of each of your paint samples to separate sheets of paper or card (the bigger the better) and leaving to dry.

3. POSITION
Stick your sheets up in the room you’re planning to paint. Move them to other areas of the room to see how the colour changes throughout the day and under different types of light.

Learn More About How to Sample

Paint Swatches

Available in all colours, our generously sized paint swatches are made with Estate Emulsion on paper for 100% colour accuracy. With no drying time, no mess and no fuss, they’re easy to move around and layer up with other swatches to create your custom palette.

We always recommend painting a sample pot onto a piece of paper, rather than your wall, so these paint swatches complete that step for you.

1. PICK
Browse our colours, add swatches of your favourites to your basket, place your order (with free delivery) and wait for a world of colour to arrive.

2. POSITION
Carefully stick your swatches up in your space, moving them around the room so you can see how the colours shift at different times of day and in different types of light.

3. PAIR
Once you’ve chosen your colours, check the back of the swatches for the primer & undercoat and complementary white – everything you need to complete your look.

Paint Sample FAQs

Which colours can I order as a sample pot?

Every colour in our signature palette of 132 shades is available as a 100ml sample pot.

Which colours can I order as a paint swatch?

All of our colours are available as a paper paint swatch. Our Archive paint swatches are only available to order online.

Where can I buy paint samples?

Choose from our full range of sample pots right here on our website and enjoy free home delivery, or step into your nearest Farrow & Ball showroom or stockist.

Can I have paint samples delivered to my home?

Yes, you can order sample pots and paint swatches online, with free home delivery. This makes it easy to test your favourites in the room you’re planning to decorate.

What finish do your paint samples come in?

All samples come in our classic chalky matt finish, Estate Emulsion.

Do paint samples accurately represent the finished colour?

Our sample pots and paint swatches come in our chalky matt Estate Emulsion finish, giving you an accurate impression of the colour. The final effect may vary slightly depending on your chosen paint finish, the surface and the light in the room.

How many paint samples should I test before deciding on a colour?

A shortlist of three to five shades is usually enough to compare without feeling overwhelming. Revisit each one at different times of day to see how the changing light affects the colour.

How should I test paint samples at home?

Apply two coats to a generously sized sheet of paper or card and leave it to dry completely. You can then move it around the room, placing it beside furniture and fabrics and checking the colour in daylight and lamplight. Alternatively, try our paint swatches. These are card samples we have pre-painted for you.