About us

Allen Braithwaite Paints and Wallpaper opened in 1979, founded by Allen and Dorothy Braithwaite. Allen, a professional decorator, saw the need for a decorating shop in Colne that could provide customers and decorators with quality products at reasonable prices. Dorothy ran the shop while Allen continued to work as a painter and decorator, occasionally popping in to the shop to offer his words of wisdom.

Over 40 years later, in the summer of 2026, Dorothy made what many will feel was a long-overdue decision to retire, and the doors of the original Colne shop have now closed. But the story of Allen Braithwaite Paints and Wallpaper doesn’t end there.

Paint & Paper, an independent decorating business based in Todmorden, has taken over the existing business website and has a remarkably similar history, background, and ethos.

Like Allen, Paint & Paper’s owner, Leanne, is an apprentice-trained painter and decorator with extensive experience and a genuine passion for helping people get the best from their decorating projects. She understands that choosing the right paint, wallpaper or decorating product can sometimes be daunting, and is always happy to offer knowledgeable, practical advice.

Although Allen Braithwaite now operates online only, the same independent spirit and commitment to quality products and personal service continues.

Customers are also very welcome to visit Paint & Paper in Todmorden, where Leanne and the team can offer advice in person, help with product choices and discuss your decorating project with you.

A shared approach

There is a lot that connects the two businesses. Both were built on the belief that a decorating store should offer more than just a place to buy paint and wallpaper. Good advice, quality products and friendly, personal service have always been at the heart of what we do.

We continue to offer a carefully selected range of paints, wallpapers, and decorating products, including products from many leading brands. Whether you are tackling a small decorating job, renovating a whole house or simply looking for that perfect wallpaper, we want to help you make the right choice.

We may no longer have the original shop in Colne, but the values that made Allen Braithwaite successful for more than 40 years continue through its Online Store.

Independent, knowledgeable and passionate about decorating — just as it has always been.