It does not matter if it is a small job; painting anything in my home typically requires four trips to the hardware store and results in many wrong sample color choices. Paint you can pick and purchase online with the help of experts like Backdrop seemed like a dream come true. To see if it was an easier alternative to my local paint store, I put Backdrop to the test on an accent wall project for my son’s bedroom; I’d been putting it off for months.  The first step in any paint project, including my test of Backdrop, is deciding on a color. Since my plan was for an accent wall in a child’s room, my mind was set on something bold and fun that would tie in some of the other decor items in his space. Browsing the Backdrop interior color choices and using their photo gallery, I decided to test three colors: Surf Camp, After Hours, and Saturday On Sunday.
It seems counterintuitive, but I really love how Backdrop only has 50 color choices. For one, all the colors were on-trend and similar to the shades I’d been looking at for inspiration on various home decorating sites. I also liked that since they don’t have so many options, the colors I wanted to test were often featured online and in their photo galleries. Using their photos for reference made it easy for me to visualize how the colors would look in my home before committing to the samples, which cost $3 each plus shipping.  When my paint samples arrived (approximately a week later), I immediately put them up to view in the space. Unlike the small sample cans I would typically get from the hardware store, I was pleasantly surprised that the Backdrop Paint color samples were 12 x 12 adhesive sample swatches. They were big enough to see what the color would look like and easy to re-position to test the colors under different lighting spots or on different walls. It’s honestly hard to imagine going back to the old way, which is messy, more expensive, and in some ways, less accurate. When I finally decided on a color, I placed my order on Backdrop and received my paint, a paint mixing stick, and a small cloth within a week. It was wonderfully convenient. While waiting for my paint to arrive, I used Backdrop’s “manual” page on their site to get tips on how to prep my space. Their instructions and summaries were easy to follow, and unlike my typical process, it felt great knowing I had expert advice and a customer service team at my disposal to get the job done right. The painting process was a breeze. The Backdrop Paint can is uniquely designed; you can twist to open and close the can as you work, hold it with the built-in handle, and pour it easily onto a tray through the wide opening. The can is stainless steel so that it won’t rust, and once the can is empty, the can is recyclable.

Do you need to buy a primer?

No need for a primer! The paint had great coverage. It was thick, spread well, and dried fast. I did two coats over an existing dark grey, and it was perfect. I have textured walls but didn’t feel like that required more or less paint than normal. So far, the paint has been durable, and I can wipe it clean with soap and water.

What finishes are available?

Since my project called for interior paint, I had two choices: Standard Finish and Semi-Gloss. I opted for Standard Finish since the Backdrop site called it “ideal for pretty much any interior wall surface.” It is semi-matte with a 6 percent sheen level. The other walls in the room were painted in eggshell, and I found the Standard Finish to be more matte than those walls. It looks fine, but ideally, I would like a little more sheen, especially for the dark color I chose. Honestly, for the high price of this paint per can, I’d love the option to customize the project with more finish options.

Is the paint low-odor?

According to Backdrop, their paints are low-VOC, meet the industry’s strictest standards, and are certified by GREENWISE. I didn’t notice an overwhelming odor, but the new paint smell lingered for longer than other paints I’ve used. Standards-wise, this paint is totally safe for a child’s room, but you will notice the fresh paint smell for a few days. Keep that in mind if you’re expecting guests.

Is this paint worth the price?

Yes and no. For the convenience of the curated color choices, self-adhesive sample, and the option to shop for paint supplies on the site, I loved the Backdrop experience. However, I paid about $20 per can more than I normally would and didn’t notice a huge difference in paint quality. I’d use Backdrop again in a heartbeat if color was a priority like it was for this project.

Backdrop Paint vs. The Spruce Best Home Paints

Similar to Backdrop, The Spruce Best Home Paint Line is a curated collection of 32 interior paints that were produced by KILZ. Curation makes the experience of selecting a hue beautifully simple and enjoyable. The price is more affordable at $36 a can. Unlike Backdrop, The Spruce Best Home Paint Line offers three finishes: eggshell, matte, and semi-gloss. The dry paint film is stain and mildew-resistant, so it’s a smart option for a kid’s room where messes are sure to occur.

If you have a large project that requires multiple gallons of paint, you could save money and get similar quality paint in-store. For smaller projects where a stylish color is a priority or if going to the store is inconvenient, you can’t beat Backdrop Paint.