A fresh coat of paint will improve the look and feel of your home without breaking the bank. Professional painters are one way to tackle the job, but you can also put your DIY spirit to use. While interior paint projects are easy, they’re not foolproof. If you’re thinking about DIY, be sure to make the necessary preparations. This guide will help you choose you the right color, finish, and material.  

White vs. Color

As a DIY painter, your first job is choosing a color scheme. This is mostly a matter of personal preference, but there are a couple of best practices. Recently, contemporary interior designers have taken to using off-white walls to create a sense of openness. When think you’ve made your decision, ask someone to mix a small sample for you. Then, paint a small swatch in a well-lit area and let it dry for about a day. If you decide that the color isn’t quite right, you can always try another sample. Take your time, and choose a color that works for you.

Water-Based vs. Solvent-Based

Your next job is to choose between water-based and solvent-based paints. Solvent-based paints are more durable than water-based paints, but they dry slowly and release chemicals into the atmosphere in the process. Water-based are easier to work with and dry more quickly, but they’re also less durable. For walls and ceilings, water-based paints are the ideal choice. For baseboards, trim, and other at-risk areas, go with a solvent-based paint.

Primer vs. Two-in-One

If you’re new to the world of interior paint, it’s easy to forget about primer. When used properly, primer increases opacity and consistency by creating a sturdy base for subsequent coats of paint. Purchase a latex-based primer with latex paint and an oil-based primer with solvent-based paint. If you’re re-painting a surface, you can also purchase a paint-primer combination product. Just remember that two-in-one products work best when the new color is relatively similar to the previous coat of paint.

Flat vs. Gloss

Next, you’ll have to decide between flat, eggshell, and semigloss finishes. When choosing, remember that shinier paints are more durable than low-shine paints and easier to clean. On the other hand, they’re also harder apply. Flat or matte paints have a non-reflective finish and low shine. These paints are best for ceilings and walls with low to moderate levels of traffic. Eggshell and satin are soft, pearlescent finishes that work well in areas with moderate to high traffic. Save semi-gloss and glossy finishes for high-traffic areas and high-use objects like bathrooms and kitchen cabinets.

Brushes vs. Rollers

The paint products you choose will influence the materials you need to purchase. First, pick paint tins, drop cloths, and painter’s tape. These items are essential to a successful paint job. Rollers work well for flat, eggshell, and satin paints, as well as primer. If you’re working with glossy paint, make sure you purchase a brush. The glossy finish is thicker, and rollers will leave awkward marks. Ambitious painters can use a sprayer with flat paint. However, you could probably hire professional house painters a comparable price.