Cotton and White Flour: the documented difference
Cotton has an LRV of 83; Sherwin-Williams White Flour SW-7102 is 87. The difference is 4 points, with White Flour returning more light under the reference measurement. Choose by the material relationship as well as the number. Cotton's high LRV supplies a clear lightness reference, but the available description does not support a precise undertone claim. White Flour is a high-reflectance creamy white.
| Color | Brand / code | LRV |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Sherwin-Williams SW-9581 | 83 |
| White Flour | Sherwin-Williams SW-7102 | 87 |
The choice beside limestone and white upholstery
Limestone and white upholstery create a close palette in which the actual material boundary should decide the preferred white.
Set up both candidates with limestone and white upholstery. Use equal-sized boards with the intended finishes and place them in the same orientation. Do not put one directly beside a window and leave the other in shadow. A difference that follows the position rather than the board is a lighting observation, not evidence that the formula changed.
What the comparison can—and cannot—settle
The alternative Greek Villa has an LRV of 84.
Use the actual stone to assess the white; the published data do not justify a universal undertone promise. Assess Cotton and White Flour alone as well as side by side. The unchosen board will not remain in the finished room, and a preference created only by that neighbor may not survive its removal. Before ordering samples, compare room-planning features in the paint color visualizer roundup.
Sources & notes
Color specifications: Sherwin-Williams Cotton SW-9581. The recorded LRV is 83. Named comparison values come from the respective manufacturers; material schemes are editorial suggestions.
This guide reviews published color information and proposes practical sample checks. It does not claim first-hand paint testing or customer-review scores. Sherwin-Williams does not sponsor or endorse this site. Product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners. Confirm the color in a physical sample and select the coating for the actual surface and finish.