Haint Blue- A Lowcountry Classic

Charming, traditional and decidedly southern-

Why does this blue cover Charleston Porch ceilings?

Just like most of Charleston charm, the answer is woven together. Folklore, history, tradition and even some common sense make haint blue a Charleston classic.

History- Folklore Gullah Culture

Popular crops of the Southern Lowcountry during the 18th century include rice, corn, cotton and indigo. Before the cultivated indigo plant can be used it will be processed into a beautiful blue dye. The blue hue was used in fabrics, ceramics and glass. The dye was easily mixed with milk and paint for the now infamous coastal blue color. During this same time, the Gullah-Geechee community lived and worked on the Plantations in the Charleston area. The community grew together and found solace in the color. Gullah folklore says the ‘haints’ or ghosts dislike the blue and it was used as repellent. Consequently, the haints cannot cross over the color that reminds them of water. It may have also tricked the ghosts into thinking it was sky and making them escape. Dive deeper into the haint history here.

Pest Control with Exterior Painting Services in Charleston, SC

Not a fan of spiders? Scientists think spiders only see blues and greens on the color spectrum. Green may make them feel safe and protected in their leafy habitat. Evidently, blue may make them feel more unsafe, like being exposed to the sky. The same may be true for wasps, who also dislike haint blue. Exterior porch paint helps to make it an uncomfortable home for both of the pests. Historically, the blue paint was mixed with milk and lye for pigment. Lye is also known for its insect repelling effects and may have played a role in these claims. Pest control with paint? A winning combination!

Light and airy Interior Painters in Charleston, SC

Everyone loves haint blue for exterior paint, but what about inside? Charleston painters generally love a soothing coastal color palette in both traditional and modern use. Schedule a color consultation with our team to help you imagine your interior paint with Sherwin Williams color palettes. We love Piazza Blue from the Sherwin Williams Historic Colors of Charleston Collection. Blue Haze from Benjamin Moore makes a small bathroom look bigger and pairs wonderfully with coastal neutrals.

The best thing about Haint Blue, is that it’s not just one color its a spectrum! Prefer a lighter blue or a more earthy green? It’s up to you!