Experienced designers will tell you how important color and texture are and that the best place to start your interior décor is with the floor, but what then? So many surfaces, so many options, so many colors...how do you get started?

Whether it’s a new home or a re-décor, selecting those all-important surfaces for your home is a big responsibility, complicated by so many new colors and textures and the perception that there are some “rules” you have to follow.

The editors of FABULOUS FLOORS magazine recently became acquainted with a clever way for the home decorator to explore the mysteries of color. It’s called “Design Plan In A Can,” and while it features seven collections and more than 70 very refreshing color palettes, it also introduces you to concepts like tones, ways to bring your whole décor to life and 10 design guidelines for a professional outcome.

Colors are arranged by collection: Island Tones. Neutrals (they don’t HAVE to be boring). Mid-Tones. Traditional. Spices. Jewel Tones. Metro. A Color Placement Recommendation Guide shows colors and finishes marked for each area of your home. Remember, it’s a guide, not a rulebook!

Each can contains actual swatches for every home surface. According to the creator, Edith Snell, “They have been professionally chosen to blend with one another to give you a polished finish.” Edith has worked in the interior design field for nearly 20 years and says this is one time it’s OK to “think inside the can.” There, you’ll find samples for floors, of course, plus counters, fabrics, wallpapers, paints and stains, cabinet colors and ceramic tile.

There are three design levels (starter, moderate and luxury homes), and all product manufacturers and their contact numbers are printed on the inside of the can lid. (Many of them have been featured previously in FABULOUS FLOORS.) Price is $99. For contact details see Pages 78-79.