To respond to Woodright’s comments on a recent post I tested out my theory that computer software for simulation of room colors could be applied to testing colors on furniture before upholstering. I used a tool I purchased in 2004 from Benjamin Moore, by ei Software to mock up the sofa that is being sold at the Flomaton auction.

The tool allows you to define several color areas. For demonstration purposes, I chose to keep the back a separate color from the seat so that you can see the versatility. The process requires defining the shape of the area that you want to color. You draw the area with your mouse and create a closed area that is capable of being filled with color by the software. Once all your color areas are created, you can choose a different color for each area.  The opaqueness setting (Paint Thickness) allows you to let some of the natural fabric texture show through the paint to let the creases, buttons and tufting show through and add to the realness of the simulation.

The drawback of the tool is that it is made to represent actual paint colors from Benjamin Moore. Obviously you’re not going to paint the furniture, but it allows you to select approximate hues from which you can narrow down the families of colors to match up with upholstery samples.

The tool is still in existence and can either be sampled online for free, or the professional version is available here for $10. You cannot upload your own [furniture/room] images with the free version.

Here’s the before: