America's Color Consultants

May 5, 2025May 6, 2025

The Exciting World of Grout

If you live in a post-WWII home in NOVA, you probably have/had only one color grout in your bathroom – white!

For many (many!) years one’s choice of grout color for their renovated tiled bathrooms, kitchens and even floors was white or ivory. No more. As the choices of ceramic, porcelain and other tiles grew in patterns and colors, so too did the choice of grout colors to complement them. One more detailed decision to be made when renovating: what color grout!

If one wants the overall impact of the tile to be more graphic in its appearance, a contrasting grout color might be in order. If the desire is for the tile to appear seamless in design, a grout color that is the same shade of the tile would be in order. Besides the color, when selecting grout for your project (if you’re a DIY’er) it’s important to select the right component make-up – sanded, non-sanded or epoxy.

Generally speaking, one should use non-sanded grout for narrow joint widths (the space between the tiles) under ⅛” where one would like a smooth finish. Use sanded grout for grout lines of ⅛” and larger. Sanded grout is stronger, more dense and suitable for areas of moisture. Both can and should be treated with a sealer and should be retreated periodically to improve water resistance.

Epoxy grout is used by many professionals due to its high durability and stain and water resistance. It also comes in more colors and does not need sealing. However, it is more expensive (3x-5x), needs special installation tools, and is more difficult to work with due to its quick drying: something to consider if you’re a DIY’er or beginner. A large, expensive project might not be the place to experiment with epoxy grout.

The joint widths themselves will vary based on the size of the tile and the overall desired look. This is an area where an expert’s guidance is invaluable!

Product Review – Grout Pens

I live in an older home with lots of white grout. Over the years the marble tile has held up well, however the grout has become stained. My choices were to re-grout or use a grout pen. I was hesitant to use the grout pen: the colors were limited and would it look cheap? I dove into this project thinking if it did not work I would just re-grout. My bathroom is small 5′ x 5′. It took two pens and about 30 minutes of my time. I discoverd the placement of the tiles was done very well, however the grout work not so much. There were some small holes in the grout I had to fill.

The cost of the 2 pens was just under $20 on Amazon. Available colors were limited, so you need to be flexible. I would have preferred a lighter warmer gray, but in the end it is OK.

I would say for $20 and the time spent it was worth trying.

Before: White grout stained over the years.

January 28, 2025January 29, 2025

Our “Real” Color of the Year for 2025

America’s Color Consultants (ACC), the nation’s first and (only!) color consulting franchise, is pleased to present our “Real” Color of the Year for 2025. While the major paint companies spend millions to introduce their colors for the coming year, ACC takes a different approach. ACC franchisees help their clients select colors they’ll love for more than 6-12 months. The average, real homeowner – those who use ACC services – paint their interiors an average of 5-8 years and exteriors 10-15 years.

Our “Real” Color of the Year 2025 is SW 6290 Unique Gray. Even though it is called “gray” it is actually a very neutralized blue/purple. Unique Gray is a shade darker than an off-white. For a color drenching effect pair Unique Gray with a midtone shade of the same family of color SW 6262 Mysterious Mauve.

ACC Location Palettes

Our Color of the Year is based on what hundreds of our clients choose for their homes in 2024. ACC finds that most of our clients prefer neutral shades of blue, green and purples with bluer undertones. Midtones and lighter shades are still trending with darker colors only used as accent colors. Off-whites are trending warmer. Each of our ACC locations submitted three beautiful colors they predict will continue to trend in 2025, and from these five palettes, we selected our “Real” Color of the Year for 2025.

Shades of gray have been popular for the past ten years (according to our Blogs!). This is reflected in the continuing popularity of the color as reported by our franchisees. However, national design and interior trend outlooks are now becoming warmer, cozier, and swinging back toward the beiges for wall color. And since the general population paints their interior an average of every 5-8 years, this trend will no doubt continue for the next several years. Brown is becoming the new “black” in home design and decor.

For more information, click links to: In-Home consulting services in DC-Metro, Northern VA, Charlotte, NC and Malibu, CA; franchise opportunities; and live Virtual Color Consultations, available nationwide. Read more here.

December 3, 2024December 3, 2024

What is Color Drenching?

Farrow and Ball Setting Plaster No. 231 Dead Flat creates a serene mood for a child’s room.

Color trends come and go: we see new “colors of the year” introduced each January. Black interiors and exteriors are having a moment. So what exactly is this new term, “color drenching”? Simply put, it is the use of the same color or levels of intensity of the same color on walls, ceilings, trim and even furnishings.

We’ve always called it using a monochromatic palette, or colors that are extremely close in color. Its use can create a room that is light and airy, or one that has a cozy or moody feel. Tempted to give it a try? We recommend trying this approach in a smaller space to see how you feel about it. A powder room, hallway or entrance foyers, maybe even a guest room where you want to create a specific mood might be good spaces to experiment.

We often recommend (especially for open floor plans) to paint the ceiling, walls, trim and baseboard the same color, varying only the finish (the sheen of the paint). This will allow you in the future to paint individual walls however you fancy without having to repaint the ceiling, trim and baseboard, therefore maintaining some continuity in your space while at the same time saving you repainting dollars (ceilings, trim and baseboards are time/money consuming).

If you’re intrigued by the concept and want to see and learn more, click on the included links to Martha Stewart’s article, as well as one from Architectural Digest. If you’re inspired by what you see, call your friendly neighborhood America’s Color Consultant for assistance!

September 24, 2024September 24, 2024

Looking for original artwork for your freshly painted home? The Virginia countryside is the home to many artists. If you are up for a weekend outing come visit the town of Warrenton, VA, the home of our corporate office. Warrenton has traditional galleries as well as more contemporary art such as Taylor Boyd Studios.

TAYLOR BOYD STUDIOS

7 North Fifth Street, Warrenton Virginia

About Taylor Boyd – Taylor Boyd has been an artist since childhood and has always dreamed of opening a gallery/studio of her own. In 2022, she opened Taylor Boyd Studios in Old Town Warrenton. She has sold her original art for 20 years and is very dedicated to her work.

A native of Fauquier County, Taylor has a strong passion and interest in the growth of her hometown and looks forward to getting to be a part of its expanding arts community.

She is the Vice President of the Warrenton Arts Commission and advocates for the wealth of untapped artistic potential. In 2023 she painted the large scale “You Are Home” mural on Culpeper Street in Warrenton, VA. She most recently completed the illustrations for a new children’s book that is set to come out later this year.

After her 2008 graduation from Virginia Wesleyan, Taylor returned to Warrenton in 2011 and over the years has decided to turn her passion for art into her full time career. In 2019, she quit her 9-5 to pursue happiness and expression. “If not now, when?”

About Taylor Boyd Studios – Taylor Boyd Studios offers Taylor’s original artwork and prints for sale along with other retail and merchandise. She also displays selected works by local artisans she has worked with over the years.

Taylor occasionally offers private and group art lessons, paint nights and workshops for all ages and experience levels. To take advantage of any upcoming events please find and follow her on Facebook and Instagram @taylorboydstudios.

Awards – She has been given many recognitions over the years for her artwork, most recently winning the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Fauquier Times Reader’s Choice Award for Best Local Painter as well as the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Lifestyle Magazine’s Best of Fauquier for Best Local Artist, and 2023 and 2024 Lifestyle Magazine’s Best of Fauquier for Best Gallery.

July 23, 2024July 23, 2024

4 Misconceptions about Franchises

Looking for a side hustle? America’s Color Consultants might be right for you.

America’s Color Consultants (ACC) franchisees work from home offices.

#1 Franchises discourage creativity/freedom While franchises create the basic framework for a business, that doesn’t mean they would micromanage all decisions that a franchisee makes. In fact, most of the day to day dealings are up to the franchise owner. The guidelines put in place by the franchisor aren’t there just to tell people what to do – they’re tried and proven methods for success. Many of the guidelines are there to maintain the franchise brand and reputation. America’s Color Consultants (ACC) encourages creativity and allows their franchisees the freedom to work full or part-time.

#2 Franchises are too expensive While the startup costs for certain franchises can be expensive, that doesn’t mean all of them are: the price is much less if you’re operating a home-or service-based franchise rather than a chain restaurant or storefront business. The largest fee in franchising is a one-time franchise fee which is used to set-up and train the new franchisee. In addition, a monthly/quarterly royalty to the company is also required. These pay for being able to use the franchise’s established brand recognition and reputation, and other business resources. America’s Color Consultants are home-based businesses that require very little in terms of required physical materials – a phone, car, and computer. There are no storefront requirements and the materials needed to begin color consulting are provided as part of the franchise fee. Extensive training is provided and the support for success is ongoing. ACC is considered a “boutique” or “niche” franchise and has a franchise fee under $15,000. It is the perfect “side hustle” business for those who want/need flexibility in their work schedule and/or for those who want additional family income in all stages of their life.

ACC franchisees live in the communities they serve… and love it.

#3 Franchises are not small businesses Franchises like McDonalds and Taco Bell number in the hundreds, even thousands. But did you know the majority of franchise companies have an average of 5 locations? And while there are numerous fast food franchises, there are also doggie daycare centers, real estate offices, pest control services, and tutoring franchises. Many franchisees are owned and operated by people who live in the communities they serve. America’s Color Consultants is such a franchise: our talented franchisees love helping their neighbors choose the perfect paint color for their spaces.

#4 Having a franchise will instantly make you rich If only THAT were true! In many ways, being a part of a franchise is like taking a shortcut in building your business: the trickier parts are already set up for you, and there is built-in support and experience to make it work. But it takes dedication and determination to make a business successful, even if you have a franchise system backing you up. And It certainly helps if you are passionate about your work. If you have an eye for color, love meeting and helping people, exercising your creative muscles and utilizing your life/work experience, you may be a fit for America’s Color Consultants! Ready to find out more?

ACC takes their office on the road PT or FT.

July 1, 2024July 1, 2024

Faux Painting: a Dying Art Form? NO!

When thinking about ways to add interest to your space, consider decorative painting techniques. These include ragging, strie, faux marbling and wood graining, and Venetian plaster. You might also consider hiring a fine artist who specializes in murals and “trompe l’oeil” (“fool the eye” with its realism).

While trained craftsmen can apply stucco and Venetian plasters and even paint graphic designs in your space, muralists are fine artists with years of training and experience. Often their work is underappreciated and, if found in a newly purchased home, are often painted over without much thought. Although tastes (and quality of art product) differ, don’t forget that the money spent on the artwork’s production is an added value to the home – give it a chance to grow on you!

One of our favorite local artists is Steve Dueño. He has been creating beautiful art for local homeowners, businesses and museums for years. He was recently called in by ACC’s Florence Jones when her client needed a match for her painted marble moulding and chair rail following a renovation. Steve did a great job, making a seamless match. Also pictured below are other examples of his work.

Stephen Dueño was interested in art as a kid, drawing and painting from an early age. He worked as a sign painter’s assistant in his teens and after high school started taking art classes at the Prince George’s Community College in Maryland. He worked as a house painter in his early twenties and joined the painters Union and worked for large unionized paint shops in the DC area. Although he had many years experience in art making, it was while working in these shops that he learned to do fine finishes, lacquering, spraying, faux finishing, gilding and other fine finishes.

In his late twenties Stephen went on to full time college, working his way through and eventually gaining a Masters degree in art from The Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore Md. While still in school he launched a mural and decorative painting business called – Steve’s Murals and Faux Finishes. Thirty years later he’s still at it. Contact Steve at 703-217-1101 or email at ddueno@cs.com

Other ways to add unique large format features to your home are custom printed wallpapers. Check out local artist casartcoverings.com and sites like spoonflower.com or on Etsy.com

ACC encourages support of artists (especially local): we need their creativity in our lives! Florence Jones and Susan Mintz (ACC Co-Founders ) also enjoy painting projects. Florence (America’s Color Consultants – DC Metro) recently was asked to restore a faux-finished sink surround and faucet that the client loved. She’s also handpainted a bench to grace a client’s foyer and stenciled her bathroom vinyl floor, among other projects! contact Florence at 703-725-6871, or email at florence@AmericasColorConsultants.com

Susan (America’s Color Consultants-Malibu) has been painting and decorating old, forlorn wood dressers, tables and vanities for the past several years in addition to paint color consulting. She’s thrilled to be using the training she received at the Torpedo Factory years ago in decorative painting techniques, including faux wood graining and stone looks. She combines these techniques with the beautiful decorative elements available on the market to elevate painted furniture to pieces of art. Contact Susan at 703-362-3131 or email at susan@AmericasColorConsultants.com

May 7, 2024May 7, 2024

Painting Your Cabinets: Professional vs DIY

Painted cabinets have been a trend for the past couple of years. It’s a great way to save money and also get a custom look. Most house painters today are telling their clients that they can paint their cabinets. However, there is a right way and a wrong way. Albeit more expensive, the best option for painting your cabinets is using a professional cabinet painter. This is a painter who only paints cabinets and has been doing so for 5 to 10 years. The cost can be double the bid from the house painter, but the difference will be the longevity of the paint job. A professional cabinet painters’ final result will be equal to a factory finish and could last up to 20+ years. A house painter’s job may last 2-5 years.

Cabinet Paint Review: Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel

If you decide to use a general house painter or you want to paint them yourself, Sherwin Williams has – Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel. For our test below we used the color “Cotton” only available in the Emerald line of paints. It is a soft off-white with neutral yellow undertones.

Steps for either the professional painter or homeowner to take using this product:

Step 1 – Remove the cabinet doors and any hardware (mark which doors match which cabinets)

Step 2 – Clean all surfaces well with Krud Kutter to remove oil and grease residue.

Step 3 – Sand the surface. If your cabinets are wood with a poly top coat you MOST take the time to sand. If they are pre-painted it is also best to sand, even just a scuff-sand and especially if they are previously painted in an oil-based paint.

Step 4 – Prime – a MUST!: paint one to two coats of primer. We prefer a fast-drying, oil-based primer such as Zinsser “Cover Stain”. If you are painting over a dark wood or dark paint color it is best to use two coats of primer.

Step 5 – Paint. Paint your cabinet doors on a horizontal surface, not vertical. The secret to painting cabinets for the smoothest surface is using multiple thin coats of paint, using the recommended SW Mohair Blend roller and allowing 12 hours between coats. This may mean you need to paint three coats instead of two, but a thin coat will prevent runs, allows for some self-leveling, and when allowing the proper dry time between coats (very important), it should give you a stronger finish.

Step 6: Replace Doors. Allow for “curing” (the time needed for the paint to harden, not just dry), before reinstalling the doors. This can be 21-30 days for best results.

The addition of new, cleaned or even painted knobs/pulls will complete the renovated look of your cabinets. If the cabinet hinges are visible you may consider changing those too. Check out Etsy.com for a great selection of unique products.

Results/Opinion: ACC’s Florence Jones found the Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel, semi gloss finish to be relatively easy to work with and the final finish was good. It is a reformulated Sherwin-Williams product, time will tell if it will create a hard durable finish that withstands the wear and tear of a kitchen. Flo’s kitchen has 50+year old wood cabinets which appear to have been painted several times with different colors. The original paint was oil based. The cabinets’ interior paint remains the original oil based paint; and since it gets the least wear and tear, not painting it was the best option for her. If your cabinet insides are in good condition and a color you can live with, you may elect to only paint the outside doors and cabinet face.

Cabinet Paints for True DIYers. There are several brands of paint on the market that are specifically targeted for DIY painters of furniture, including kitchen and bath cabinets. These include chalk paints (Annie Sloan, Debi’s Design Diary DIY, Dixie Belle) that require a wax or poly topcoat, and “all in one” paints that profess to need no top coat (Heirloom Traditions, Wise Owl, and Amy Howard All-in-One and Miracle paints). ACC’s Flo Jones and Susan Mintz have used all of the above products in their own homes and can attest to their ease and lasting nature. Florence painted her bathroom vanity and stenciled her floor using chalk paint and topcoats about 8 years ago. They still look great! Susan has used all the above products: chalk paints on her kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities; all-in-one paints for her furniture flipping projects. She has been very happy with all of them. Where there appears to be wear and tear over time, it is easily remedied with a light cleaning of the area, touchup painting and appliance of a topcoat.

We recognize that each project is unique and larger projects may require the use of a professional painter with specific skills and experience.

March 19, 2024March 20, 2024

Meet Lynn Ishikawa our America’s Color Consultants -Ashburn, VA franchise owner

Lynn Ishikawa serves Loudoun county, Virginia including Leesburg, Ashburn and beyond. Contact her at 703-594-7868 (call or text), email: lynn@ashburncolorconsultants.com

Q: Tell us a little about your background:

A: I’ve worked in the Hospital and Healthcare IT industry for 20+ years but always had a penchant for helping friends & family pick colors for their homes and offices. So when the pandemic hit, I decided to venture into the world of paint color to see if I could possibly find a second career within the design industry. I’ve actually found my calling by helping clients discuss, explore, analyze and select the perfect paint colors for their homes!

Q: So you went from a stable and comfortable job and started a whole new career?

A: Yes, I took a leap of faith to launch this new (& very different!) business and to figure out what it takes to own my own franchise and be self-employed.

Q: What is the one thing you believe firmly in when it comes to color?

A: One should not make color decisions in isolation! I will always inquire about other elements in a project including flooring, cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, furniture, fabric, art, décor & lighting and then guide clients in a direction they’re comfortable with.

Q: What’s your most favorite part of the process?

A: There are so many… I enjoy facilitating the dialogue between a couple who may happen to disagree on what color to choose and educating clients on color pigments, pros & cons of different paint sheens, drying vs. curing etc. I love it when a client chooses their favorite color in a dramatic shade to use in their office or powder room. And I especially like it when they contact me afterwards to let me know the job is (finally) done and they send in pictures of the finished project.

Q: What kind of feedback have your clients given you?

A: I have the best clients! They’re so thankful and tell me how much they appreciate me helping them to feel confident in their decisions and that their new room colors inspire them to live & work authentically!

Q: Any advice for someone who isn’t sure about what colors to use?

A: Everyone deserves to be happy and enjoy the space they live and/or work in by using color! Build trust in yourself and the process! You can create the space you love by stepping through any fear of color you may have.

Q: Can you share a recent project with us?

A: Yes! This home in Sterling needed some TLC after having been rented out for 2 decades. The homeowners needed my help to transform the exterior colors to make it their own while at the same time still fit in with the surrounding neighborhood. They knew that they wanted a ‘green-brown-neutral’ overall color scheme to be in harmony with the mature trees on their property, and just needed help refining their choices and then deciding where to utilize each color. After a few iterations and plan options, this is what they ultimately decided on and are very happy with the results!

Paint colors used:

SW 7748 Green Earth: All siding, garage doors and foundation on the back and sides

SW 7738 Cargo Pants: Brick front

SW 7563 Restful White: All window trim & soffits

SW 7048 Urbane Bronze: All shutters, trim around garage doors, front & storm door

SW 3024 River Birch: Deck

Products used by Painting Contractor:

Sherwin-Williams Super Deck Solid Stain in SW 3024 River Birch
Trim/doors/shutters: Sherwin-Williams Duration in Gloss
Siding: Sherwin-Williams Emerald Rain Refresh in Satin
Brick: Sherwin-Williams Duration in Flat

February 27, 2024February 27, 2024

What’s Old is New Again: Return of the 70s

Designs of the 70s featured large, colorful graphics. Influenced by abstract and pop art – and even disco – there were bold stripes, waves, rainbows, sunbursts, and flowers. The patterns could be found on walls, posters, album covers and clothing. These designs would be created inexpensively with paint on walls as cheap art for young apartment dwellers and as bold statements in offices and on building exteriors.

Art is back. Todays artist are creating their own wall art inspired by the 70’s.

Like every aspect of design, with their distinct retro vibe, these design features are making a comeback in restaurants, hip office spaces and in the dwellings of the young and young at heart. They are showing up as wall murals and fabric for home and office use, and even as wall, floor and furniture stencils. The designs are available through specialty websites such as zazzle, spoonflower and Etsy.

There’s never been a better or easier time to relive the 70s or to discover its boldness for the first time.

January 23, 2024January 23, 2024

Pink is NOT just for Barbie!

The color pink is having a “moment” due in large part to the success of the Barbie movie. Neon pink may not be your cup of tea. But pink – and its siblings blush, rose and coral – have always had a fan base, and it’s easy to see why. The hue evokes a reaction in most who encounter it – it can simultaneously be playful, relaxing, endearing and sophisticated. It can also be bold and energetic. As we highlighted in an earlier blog (March 11, 2019), it has even been used in some prisons because of the calming effects of certain shades. Due to its ongoing cultural link to femininity, some people steer clear of pink. Too bad!

Home accessory manufacturers have embraced the color. Interior designers use shades of pink as a neutral color. Benjamin Moore’s AF-260 “Proposal” is a favorite, beautiful neutral of ACC’s Ashburn, VA color consultant. Another ACC favorite is Sherwin-Williams SW 6301, Patient White (a blush, they didn’t want to call it pink!). Farrow and Ball also offers a variety of pinks that are bold, subtle or soothing. Not all pinks are the same and lighting and room orientation can be tricky when working with their varying undertones and intensities. Consult your local America’s Color Consultant to help you select the right one for your space.

Pink exteriors are found all around the world, and sometimes in unexpected places within the home. We’ve included some examples here of the use of pink that make unapologetic statements of their own. One thing is clear – at least to those of us who work with color every day – people who use pink are certainly interesting!