When our client Olivia decided to repaint her home office, she came armed with advice from friends, Pinterest boards, and a few too many YouTube tutorials. But despite her best intentions, she quickly realized not everything she’d heard was true. One-coat coverage didn’t pan out. Skipping primer led to patchy color. And choosing a trendy dark shade without testing it first? Big mistake. 

Like Olivia, many homeowners fall for common interior painting myths -- only to find themselves frustrated with the final result. Let’s set the record straight on a few of the biggest misconceptions so you can get it right the first time.

Myth #1: One Coat is All You Need 

We get it -- paint cans labeled “one-coat coverage” sound like a dream. But in reality, most walls require two coats to ensure even coverage, especially when: 

• You're making a dramatic color change (dark to light or vice versa)

• The wall has texture or imperfections

• You’re using certain finishes like matte or eggshell 

Truth: One coat might look “okay,” but two coats give you lasting color depth and consistency. 

Myth #2: You Don’t Need Primer if the Paint Says It Includes It

Paint-and-primer-in-one products have their place, but they’re not magic. If your surface is stained, uneven, or unpainted (like bare drywall or wood), skipping a separate primer can lead to poor adhesion and blotchy results. 

Truth: Primer helps seal porous surfaces and provides a smooth base. Use it when transitioning between drastically different colors, painting raw materials, or working on high-traffic walls. 

Myth #3: Dark Colors Make Rooms Look Smaller

While it’s true that dark colors can absorb light, they don’t automatically shrink a room. In fact, with the right lighting and complementary decor, a dark-painted room can feel cozy, elegant, and spacious.

Truth: The impact of dark colors depends more on lighting and contrast than the color itself. 

Myth #4: Any Finish Will Work in Any Room 

Matte in the bathroom? Gloss in the bedroom? Not ideal. Each finish serves a different purpose: 

• Matte hides imperfections but isn’t easy to clean

• Eggshell or satin works well in living areas and bedrooms

• Semi-gloss and gloss are great for kitchens, baths, and trim work where durability and moisture resistance matter

Truth: The right finish helps paint last longer -- and makes your space more functional. 

Myth #5: Interior Paint is All the Same 

If you’ve ever browsed the paint aisle and been overwhelmed by options, you’re not alone. But those differences aren’t just marketing. Higher-quality paints: 

• Cover more efficiently

• Are easier to clean

• Resist fading and scuffing

Truth: Investing in premium paint up front can save you time and money in the long run. 

Summary and Conclusion 

Painting can be one of the easiest ways to refresh a space -- but only if you avoid the common traps. From expecting one-coat miracles to ignoring the importance of primer, these myths can turn your weekend project into a weeklong hassle.

Need help navigating your next paint project? 

Our expert team at Total Image Paint has the tools, knowledge, and know-how to get it right the first time. Contact us today for a flawless, frustration-free finish!