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Ideas & Tips

Painting know-how from Boyd's staff — covering colour, prep, products, and techniques. Ask Boyd's AI for instant answers too.

Staff picks
Jul 23, 2026 · Colour selection

Historical Color Collection- Iconic Color of the year

The Benjamin Moore Historical Color Collection sets the standard for enduring paint color. For 50 years, it has elevated both interior and exterior spaces with classic appeal and lasting quality, inspiring generations.

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Jul 19, 2026 · Colour selection

The 60-30-10 rule is a timeless design guideline that creates a perfectly balanced space

The 60-30-10 rule is a timeless design guideline that creates a perfectly balanced space.

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May 26, 2026

When should I use a firm brush versus a soft blend brush?

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All tips

Apr 25, 2026

How much paint will I need for my project?

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Apr 25, 2026

What Paint Brush Should I use in cutting in?

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Apr 25, 2026

How do I determine my wall's surface area?

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Apr 24, 2026

What roller thickness should I use for painting?

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Apr 22, 2026

Do I Really Need a Primer?

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Apr 21, 2026

Should I Be Using Water- or Oil-Based paint?

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Apr 21, 2026

How long does paint last in the can?

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Apr 21, 2026

How long does paint take to dry?

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Apr 21, 2026

What tools do I need for painting?

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Apr 21, 2026

How Do I Clean Up After Painting?

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Apr 21, 2026

What Sandpaper Should I Use Before Painting?

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Mar 7, 2026

Paint sheen quick guide

How to pick matte vs eggshell vs satin in 60 seconds.

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Common questions

Frequently asked questions

What sheen should I use for my living room walls?

Eggshell is the most popular choice for living rooms — it's easy to clean and hides minor wall imperfections. Matte works well in low-traffic rooms for a softer look. Ask our staff for a recommendation based on your specific walls.

Do you match competitor paint colours?

Yes — bring your swatch or competitor code to Boyd's and we'll find the closest Benjamin Moore match using Gennex® colourants. Screen colours are approximate; in-store chip comparison is always recommended.

How much paint do I need?

A general rule: 1 US gallon covers approximately 350–400 sq ft per coat on smooth walls. Measure wall height × width, subtract windows and doors, then divide by 350. Plan for 2 coats. Our staff can help you calculate for your project.

What's the difference between Aura and Regal Select?

Both are excellent premium Benjamin Moore lines. Aura® uses Color Lock® technology for exceptional hide and vivid colour; it's Boyd's top recommendation for deep, saturated colours. Regal Select® is a premium all-purpose interior paint — outstanding washability at a slightly lower price point. Ask our staff for the right choice for your project.

Do I need a primer?

Priming is recommended when painting new drywall, going from dark to light, painting bare wood, or covering stains. Boyd's stocks Fresh Start® primers and Insl-X® Stix for challenging surfaces. Our staff will advise based on your project.

Instant answers

Have a different question?

Ask Boyd's AI paint advisor — it knows the full Benjamin Moore catalog and can help with colour, prep, and product choices.