(BPT) – Ninety-four percent of homeowners plan to paint a room or rooms themselves this year, according to a recent survey by Sherwin-Williams. If you’re planning a DIY painting project of your own, keep in mind these tips.

Find color inspiration. Choosing the perfect paint color is key to creating the look you want, but how do you know which color suits your home best? Per the Sherwin-Williams survey, more than half of DIYers (56 percent) say they look to nature for color inspiration; 36 percent take their color cues from Pinterest images.

Select the right finish. Once you've decided on the perfect color, get the best finish for the space you’re painting. For durability and washability, choose a semi-gloss paint. Semi-gloss is a good option for areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.

For high-traffic areas, like a hallway or a child’s bedroom, satin and egg-shell paints are preferred because they’re easy to clean and maintain. High gloss paints are also extremely durable and easy to clean, making them perfect for windows, doors and trim. For spaces that have something to hide, a flat finish will work to your advantage.

Paint your space in the correct order. To avoid more cleanups than necessary, start by painting the ceiling, then the walls. If two coats of paint are needed, finish both coats before moving on to the next step. Next, paint windows from top to bottom, followed by the baseboards, trim and doorframe. Save the door for last.

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