Magpie

Technical Profile

What color is Magpie? It's a dark warm neutral with the hex code #3F3E39. Colors similar to Magpie include Vista Paint Subway, Vista Paint Opening Night, Hirshfield's November Storms. Comparing swatches side by side is the best way to spot the subtle differences that distinguish these close color relatives. While Magpie does not have a strongly pronounced undertone, subtle shifts can appear depending on surrounding colors and lighting. Testing it next to your flooring and trim samples will reveal any hidden warmth or coolness. Magpie (#3F3E39) by Valspar is a dark neutral paint color with a understated, nearly neutral quality. It delivers a bold depth that creates intimate, cocooning spaces. On the temperature spectrum this shade leans toward warmth, adding coziness and inviting energy. Its RGB channels are closely balanced, contributing to its neutral, even-keeled visual character. With an LRV of only 5, this color absorbs nearly all light, producing a dramatic, cocoon-like effect. A dark neutral this deep brings modern drama to feature walls, built-in cabinetry, and exterior accents while remaining easier to coordinate than a saturated color. For dark shades, a satin finish helps the color look its best by adding a gentle luminosity, while flat finishes create a more velvety, matte effect. Because Magpie carries warm undertones, it pairs naturally with other warm neutrals, creamy whites, and earthy accents like terracotta or caramel. If Valspar is unavailable in your area, close cross-brand alternatives exist from Vista Paint, Hirshfield's, RAL and others. In terms of mood and atmosphere, Magpie creates a deeply intimate, candlelit mood reminiscent of old-world parlors and luxe retreats. Designers often reach for shades like this when the goal is to shape how a room feels, not just how it looks. This shade is a natural fit for virtually every design style from minimalist Japandi to rustic farmhouse to sleek contemporary. As part of the Valspar palette, Magpie benefits from a curated selection of coordinating colors that the brand recommends for trim, accent, and ceiling pairings. Because Magpie has a low LRV, it can look dramatically different under incandescent versus daylight bulbs — always test a large swatch on the actual wall before committing. Deep shades generally benefit from a quality primer and may require an extra coat for even, streak-free coverage. Dark paint colors benefit from rich material pairings: think thick wool throws, aged leather, matte black hardware, and warm metallic accents in copper or brass. You can order Magpie (8005-1G) directly from Valspar or through major paint retailers, and we recommend purchasing a peel-and-stick sample to preview it on your wall before buying gallons.