Color, Pattern, Psychology, Emotion, and the Pandemic

The current American Painting Contractor has an article about how color choices in your home, clothing, and surroundings can affect mood. OK, we’ve known that for a long time. But here they’ve drawn parallels to the pandemic. Color in a work-from-home environment, feelings of uncertainty, comfort, optimism, ,,, well, I’ll let you read the article. (Much of it is right where that shiny spot is on the page.)

Coincidentally, this “freebie” magazine from a local realtor touched on the same points.
I’ll point out that pattern – as in, wallpaper! – also has an influence on mood and emotions.
I often say that I think I’m the only paperhanger in town who actually enjoys talking with clients about their pattern and color choices.
But it surprised me that consultations could touch on not just décor, but also mood and emotion and well-being.
For instance, I’m big on avoiding negativity. Like Facebook posts that disintegrate into name-calling and bullying.
But also … wallpaper patterns that cleverly disguise “edgy” themes like skulls or hunt scenes or orgies (trust me – they’re out there!)
Why not choose to surround yourself with something positive and uplifting, instead?!

Plastic Lids on Paint Cans

I’m used to paint and primer products coming in metal cans with metal lids. Lately some companies are using plastic cans with a metal rim, and then a metal lid. I think they’re trying to be environmentally-conscious … Although, truth be told, most such cans – plastic or metal – are not recyclable, due to product residue left in the can and it would take more effort and energy and water to rinse it out and then put that residue into our water system.
Besides that, besides the best efforts on the part of us consumers, reports are that most plastics aren’t recycled, anyway.
Moving on … when I couldn’t get my usual primer I bought some of this alternate. I was surprised to see not just a plastic bucket, but also plastic lids.
Not a big deal. Just something different, and maybe better for the ecology, somehow.
The main thing for me is, the lids don’t seem to go back on easily or completely, even when I stood on the can with my full weight. 🙂
So, some worries about the product drying out, and / or splashing out of the can when I shake it.
And probably need to use a hammer to get the can securely closed.