Muslin OC-12 by Benjamin Moore

You know that feeling when you walk into a room and instantly feel at ease? Like the walls are giving you a warm hug? That’s the magic of the right paint color—and if you’re searching for a shade that delivers both comfort and sophistication, let’s talk about Benjamin Moore’s Muslin (OC-12).

Muslin is one of those rare neutrals that doesn’t just sit quietly in the background. It has personality. With its soft beige base and subtle red undertones, it brings warmth without feeling heavy or dated. Imagine a cozy Sunday morning with sunlight streaming in—this color captures that vibe perfectly. Whether you’re refreshing a living room, bedroom, or home office, Muslin has a way of making spaces feel inviting and intentional.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Muslin has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 66.54%, meaning it reflects plenty of light, which is ideal if you’re working with a smaller room or a space that lacks natural light. It won’t make your room feel stark white, though. Instead, it adds a gentle glow, like a soft filter over your space. And because it’s light but not too pale, it pairs beautifully with both warm and cool accents. Think crisp white trim (White Dove is a dream combo) or rich wood tones for contrast.

One of Muslin’s biggest strengths is its versatility. It plays well with modern farmhouse, Scandinavian minimalism, and even bohemian flair. Picture it with linen textiles, woven baskets, and a mix of vintage and modern furniture—it’s a chameleon that adapts to your style. But here’s a pro tip: always test it in your space first. Paint a large swatch and observe it at different times of day. Those red undertones can shift slightly in warm evening light, giving it a deeper, almost honeyed feel.

Application-wise, Muslin is a dream for DIYers. It’s beginner-friendly, with good coverage in just one or two coats, and it dries fast. An eggshell or satin finish is my go-to for most rooms—durable enough for daily life but still soft on the eyes. If you’re painting a high-traffic area, though, keep in mind that lighter colors like this can show dirt more easily. A quick wipe-down usually does the trick, but it’s something to consider if you have kids or pets.

Now, let’s talk mood. Muslin is grounding. It’s the kind of color that makes a bedroom feel like a retreat or a living room feel like a gathering place. Pair it with brass fixtures for a touch of elegance, or layer in blues (its complementary hue) for a fresh, balanced look. It’s also a fantastic choice for rentals or small spaces because it opens things up without feeling sterile.

Of course, no color is perfect for everyone. If you love bold, dramatic walls, Muslin might feel too subtle. And while its warmth is a pro for many, if your space gets a ton of direct sunlight, those red undertones might pull stronger than you’d like. That’s why sampling is key.

At the end of the day, Muslin is a workhorse neutral with soul. It’s not just a backdrop—it’s a foundation for a home that feels lived-in and loved. Whether you’re painting an entire room or just an accent wall, it’s a color that won’t let you down. So grab a sample, see how it plays in your space, and get ready to fall for its quiet charm. After all, the best interiors aren’t just designed—they’re felt. And Muslin? It feels like home.

Real Room Photo of Muslin OC-12

Undertones of  Muslin ?

The undertones of Muslin are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Red. These subtle underlying hues are what give the color its depth and complexity. For example, a gray with a blue undertone will feel cooler and more modern, while one with a brown undertone will feel warmer and more traditional. It’s essential to test this paint in your home and observe it next to your existing furniture, flooring, and decor to see how these undertones interact and reveal themselves throughout the day.

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HEX value: #E1D6C1

RGB code: 225, 214, 193

Is  Muslin Cool or Warm?

Muslin is decidedly warm, with its beige undertones providing a sense of comfort and coziness. It’s an excellent choice for creating spaces that feel inviting and relaxing, as opposed to stark or sterile. If warm colors are what you love, Muslin will surely resonate with you.

Understanding Color Properties and Interior Design Tips

Hue refers to a specific position on the color wheel, measured in degrees from 0 to 360. Each degree represents a different pure color:

• 0° represents red
• 120° represents green
• 240° represents blue

Saturation describes the intensity or purity of a color and is expressed as a percentage:

• At 0%, the color appears completely desaturated—essentially a shade of gray
• At 100%, the color is at its most vivid and vibrant

Lightness indicates how light or dark a color is, also expressed as a percentage:

• 0% lightness results in black
• 100% lightness results in white

Using Warm Colors in Interior Design

Warm hues—such as reds, oranges, yellows, warm beiges, and greiges—are excellent choices for creating inviting and energetic spaces. These colors are particularly well-suited for:

• Kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, where warmth enhances comfort and sociability
• Large rooms, where warm tones can help reduce the sense of emptiness and make the space feel more intimate

For example:

• Warm beige shades provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere, ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
• Warm greige (a mix of beige and gray) offers the warmth of beige with the modern appeal of gray, making it a versatile backdrop for dining areas, bedrooms, and living spaces.

However, be mindful when using warm light tones in rooms with limited natural light. These shades may appear muted or even take on an unpleasant yellowish tint. To avoid a dull or flat appearance:

• Add depth by incorporating richer tones like deep greens, charcoal, or chocolate brown
• Use textured elements such as curtains, rugs, or cushions to bring dimension to the space

Pro Tip: Achieving Harmony with Warm and Cool Color Balance

To create a well-balanced and visually interesting interior, mix warm and cool tones strategically. This contrast adds depth and harmony to your design.

• If your walls feature warm hues, introduce cool-colored accents such as blue or green furniture, artwork, or accessories to create contrast.
• For a polished look, consider using a complementary color scheme, which pairs colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red with green, orange with blue).

This thoughtful mix not only enhances visual appeal but also creates a space that feels both dynamic and cohesive.

Light Temperature Affects on Muslin

Natural Light

Natural daylight changes in color temperature as the sun moves across the sky. At sunrise and sunset, the light tends to have a warm, golden tone with a color temperature around 2000 Kelvin (K). As the day progresses and the sun rises higher, the light becomes cooler and more neutral. Around midday, especially when the sky is clear, natural light typically reaches its peak brightness and shifts to a cooler tone, ranging from 5500 to 6500 Kelvin. This midday light is close to what we perceive as pure white or daylight-balanced light.

These shifts in natural light can significantly influence how colors appear in a space, which is why designers often consider both the time of day and the orientation of windows when planning interior color schemes.

Artificial Light

When choosing artificial lighting, pay close attention to the color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). This determines how warm or cool the light will appear. Lower temperatures, around 2700K, give off a warm, yellow glow often used in living rooms or bedrooms. Higher temperatures, above 5000K, create a cool, bluish light similar to daylight, commonly used in kitchens, offices, or task areas.

Use the slider to see how lighting temperature can affect the appearance of a surface or color throughout a space.

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LRV of Muslin

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Muslin is 66.54%, which places it in the Light colors category. This means it reflect most of the incident light. Understanding a paint’s LRV is crucial for predicting how it will look in your space. A higher LRV indicates a lighter color that reflects more light, making rooms feel larger and brighter. A lower LRV signifies a darker color that absorbs more light, creating a cozier, more intimate atmosphere. Always consider the natural and artificial lighting in your room when selecting a paint color based on its LRV.

Detailed Review of  Muslin

Muslin is an exceptional choice for those looking to infuse warmth into their interiors without overwhelming the senses. Its light, creamy shade complements a range of styles, from farmhouse to modern. When applied, it offers a smooth finish that enhances the room’s natural light, making spaces feel larger and more open. The color’s versatility is one of its major strengths; whether you’re painting an accent wall or an entire room, Muslin adapts beautifully. However, like any paint, it may require good prep work to ensure the best results, especially on rougher surfaces. Overall, Muslin stands out as a reliable option for those in search of a classic yet contemporary look.

Pros & Cons of  OC-12 Muslin

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Muslin

FAQ on OC-12 Muslin

Can I use Muslin in smaller rooms?

Absolutely! Muslin is a fantastic choice for smaller rooms as its light, warm hue can make spaces feel larger and more open. Its versatility allows it to blend seamlessly with various decor styles, enhancing the room’s overall aesthetic without overwhelming it. Just ensure you pair it with adequate lighting to maximize its airy feel.

What type of finish should I choose for Muslin?

For Muslin, an eggshell or satin finish is often recommended, especially in living areas and bedrooms. These finishes provide a nice balance of durability and sheen, making them easy to clean while still offering a sophisticated look. If you’re going for a more rustic vibe, a flat finish could also work well, but keep in mind it may require more maintenance.

Comparisons Muslin with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Muslin OC-12