Painting like a man

IS IT MANLY IN HERE, OR IS IT JUST THE PAINT? CIL Paints decided to change the names of some of its paints in order to attract more men to their product. The names of the colours, like Zombie Apocalypse (formerly Juliette’s Potion), were chosen via a Facebook contest.

So would you paint a room Dirty Socks? How about Zombie Apocalypse?

If you’re a guy, CIL Paints is apparently betting that you would.

Last fall, CIL decided to man up and change some of its paint names so they would be more appealing to the Y-gene crowd. A Facebook contest was held to draw out public creativity.

Thousands of names poured in. Some aren’t suitable for a family newspaper, but examples include Mo Mony (formerly Fairy Tale Green), Rust on My Truck (formerly Classic Liberty Red, a dark rusty-red) and Midlife Crisis (formerly Silver Lace Vine, a grey-white with a hint of green).

And, oh yeah, Dirty Socks booted out Acadia Gem (pale grey-beige), while Zombie Apocalypse tossed off Juliet’s Potion (acid yellow-green).

• Painting the man cave

Given the often fanciful paint names that spatter the industry, the down-to-earth, funny, guy-type names are refreshing (unlike those Dirty Socks). That was part of the whole idea behind the switch. Set the company apart from the rest of the wusses and go for the belly laugh, rather than the dreamy heart.

Younger guys seem to be taking more of an interest in decorating choices, so now they won’t have to discuss simpy colours like Plum Escape and Butterscotch Tempest any more.

In truth, many of the names selected for use were entered by women. Though Facebook voters determined the contest winners, not all those winning names will make it into stores. CIL marketing execs had the final say on which names to use, choosing from all those suggested in the contest. The new chips are appearing in a special brochure on “Ultimate Man Caves” available in Home Depot stores. Colour-coordinated paint schemes are shown for male hangouts like band practice rooms, workshops and bathrooms.

You can see the brochure and find out lots more about painting techniques and colour choices at www.cil.ca.

• Colours of the Year 2012

About this time of year, various paint and décor companies trumpet their pronouncements for colour of the year. For 2012, I’ve turned to three top sources for their picks.

• Pantone, a long-time leader in colour standards for industry, has chosen Tangerine Tango as its banner colour for 2012. The company describes it as “dramatic and seductive,” and “a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.” (Less gushy folk might think of it as hunter orange.)

You’re not likely going to paint a room—or even a whole wall—this shade, but it’s a good pop of colour on cushions and accessories. Fashion designers have already produced some sketches for spring incorporating the colour. Tommy Hilfiger combines it with dense beige and dashes of navy, and Adrienne Vittadini pairs it with saturated purple in a casual, flowing gown.

Pantone also boasts that cosmetics company Sephora will be bringing out a limited-edition collection featuring Tangerine Tango. The collection—including eye shadow, lipstick, lip gloss, nail polish and accessories—is expected to debut in March.

• CIL, true to its Canadian roots, takes a more conservative approach in its annual colour choice. Tea Dance, a dusty pinky-red, is its pick for 2012. It’s a versatile, toned-down shade that’s soothing or stimulating, depending on its colour partners. Lovely in a dining room with white wainscoting, Tea Dance would also work as an accent in a feminine powder room, bedroom or garden room.

• Benjamin Moore, another leading paint company, skips to another end of the spectrum for its 2012 choice. Wythe Blue, a delicate, pale blue with a touch of green, recalls historical interiors. Calling it “one of Mother Nature’s neutrals,” the company suggests combining it with creams and greys for a classic look. Alternatively, pair it with earthy greens for a warm, natural feel.

So make winter fly by: Pull out some paint chips and plan your spring colours now.