Paint samples provide an essential service for consumers planning home improvement projects, allowing for practical colour testing before committing to a larger purchase. For customers of Johnstone's Paint in the United Kingdom, various sampling options are available, ranging from traditional paint pots to modern peel-and-stick formats. However, the availability of these samples varies significantly depending on the specific product line, finish, and whether the customer is shopping for retail or trade products.
Johnstone's Retail Sample Options
Johnstone's Paint offers specific sampling solutions for its retail customers, distinct from its trade range. The brand operates a dedicated retail website where consumers can access tester pots for its standard colour ranges.
Colour Tester Pots
For customers interested in the brand's standard ready-mixed colours, Johnstone's provides interior sample pots known as "Colour Tester." These are available in the 71 ready-mixed Johnstone's colours. According to the brand's help documentation, these sample pots are priced at £1.98.
Consumers have the option to purchase sample pots in most Johnstone's colours across various sizes. The available sizes typically include 55 ml, 75 ml, or 350 ml containers. This allows customers to choose a quantity that suits the scale of their testing requirements.
MY Colour Colour Tester Pots
For customers seeking something beyond the standard ready-mixed range, Johnstone's offers "MY colour Colour Tester" pots. These are designed for those looking for specific custom colour options.
Peel and Stick Samples
In addition to liquid paint pots, Johnstone's offers a peel-and-stick sample format. These samples are made with 100% real paint and are available for the brand's top 21 MY colour shades. Customers can order these online via the brand's website. This format allows consumers to apply a physical sample to their walls to observe how the colour looks in their specific lighting conditions without the need for brushes or mess.
Trade and Specialist Product Sampling
There are significant restrictions regarding the sampling of Johnstone's Trade products and specialist finishes.
Trade Products
Johnstone's Trade products are not available for purchase on the retail website. Customers looking to shop for trade products must visit the separate trade site. While the specific availability of free trade samples is not detailed in the provided materials, the documentation notes that Johnstone's Trade products are not available to purchase on the retail site, directing trade customers to a different platform.
Masonry and Specialist Finishes
The availability of samples for specialist products varies. Currently, masonry samples are unavailable online. The brand directs customers to a product page for "Smooth Masonry Tester" and suggests using the online store locator to find a nearest stockist for inquiries.
Regarding specialist products such as Feature Wall paints, Metallics, or products for special surfaces, the documentation states that these are currently not available in tester formats. The only samples available for order online are the standard Colour Tester and MY colour Colour Tester pots, along with the peel-and-stick options for the top MY colour shades.
General Strategies for Obtaining Free Paint Samples
While Johnstone's has a specific pricing structure for its retail tester pots (£1.98), broader strategies exist for obtaining free paint samples in the UK market. These methods are often applicable to various paint brands and retailers.
Home Improvement Retailers
Major home improvement retailers frequently offer free paint samples. Stores such as Home Depot and Lowe's are mentioned in general advice as often having sample-sized containers for popular colours. In the UK context, consumers are advised to head to the paint department of major retailers and ask about sample availability. Store staff can often provide samples from specific brands or recommend products that customers commonly request.
Direct Brand Approaches
Many paint manufacturers allow consumers to order samples directly through their websites. Consumers typically fill out a form with their information, and the brand ships the sample. This method is commonly used by brands like Sherwin-Williams and Behr, though the availability of such programmes for UK brands varies.
Promotional Events
Paint manufacturers regularly host events at local hardware stores and DIY centres. These events often feature promotions where consumers can receive free sample packets or mini pots of paint. Keeping an eye on local event listings or store websites can alert consumers to these opportunities.
Loyalty Programmes
Some home improvement chains provide samples for members of their rewards programmes. Signing up for these programmes can sometimes yield exclusive offers on samples and discounts.
Social Media Engagement
Following paint brands on social media platforms such as Instagram or Facebook is a common way to stay updated on special promotions or giveaways. Brands often announce free sample campaigns or contests on these platforms. Engaging with promotional campaigns or participating in contests can sometimes result in winning free samples or discount vouchers.
Effectively Using Paint Samples
Regardless of how the samples are obtained, using them effectively is key to making a confident colour decision.
Limiting Choices
It is recommended to limit colour choices to three to five options to ensure a focused decision-making process. This prevents the consumer from being overwhelmed by too many choices.
Application and Observation
Samples should be applied to small areas in the intended rooms. It is important to observe the colours at different times of the day to see how they appear under varying lighting conditions. This helps in visualizing the final look and prevents unexpected surprises when the full painting project is completed.
Cost Considerations
Using samples, whether free or low-cost, is a cost-effective solution. It allows consumers to experiment with different shades without the expense of purchasing full gallons of paint, which can cost hundreds of pounds. By testing colours first, consumers can stay within their budget and avoid the cost of repainting if they choose the wrong colour.
Summary of Sample Availability
To summarise the specific options available through Johnstone's Paint:
- Retail Colour Tester Pots: Available for 71 ready-mixed colours at £1.98.
- MY Colour Tester Pots: Available for custom colour options.
- Peel & Stick Samples: Available for the top 21 MY colour shades (ordered online).
- Masonry Samples: Currently unavailable online; check stockists.
- Trade Products: Not available on the retail site; must be purchased via the trade site.
- Specialist Finishes (Metallics, Feature Wall, etc.): Currently not available in tester formats.
Consumers should visit the official Johnstone's Paint website for the most current information and to place orders for available sample formats.
Conclusion
Johnstone's Paint provides specific sampling options for its retail customers, primarily through the purchase of low-cost tester pots and peel-and-stick samples for its popular MY colour range. While free samples are not the standard offering on the retail site, the brand's help documentation directs trade customers and those seeking specialist finishes to appropriate channels. For consumers seeking entirely free paint samples in the UK, strategies such as visiting home improvement retailers, checking for brand promotions, and engaging with brands on social media remain effective methods. Careful testing of colours in the intended environment remains the most reliable way to ensure satisfaction with the final paint selection.