Paint is the least expensive and fastest way to make a dramatic change in any space. Here are some tips for using it effectively.

Walls — For easy maintenance, use a minimum level of eggshell gloss (never flat) for light colors. Remember, the darker the color, the higher the gloss. For a tone like hunter green or burgundy, use a semi-gloss; it adds a richness and depth while preventing chalking (marks from anything rubbing against the wall).

Trim — To maximize the architectural features of a room and frame it most effectively, use high-gloss decorator white on your trim and molding. This will make even neutrals look fresher and crisper, and it will allow the architectural features to do their job of framing the room and creating character.

Ceilings — For particularly high ceilings (8 feet or more), using graduated tints of the wall color instead of ceiling white is a great idea (especially in rooms with tray ceilings). If you are hesitant, consider a bone or linen white so white trim stands out.

Priming — Using a tinted primer can really speed up and improve coverage of any color. Light colors typically require a minimum of two coats, while darker colors can require as many as six for even coverage and to get the true level of color. Use black to prime under dark colors.

Paint finish levels — Flat is only for very light colors and regular touchups; eggshell is an easy-maintenance finish for all colors; satin or semi-gloss is necessary on deep, rich colors to truly bring out the depth of color; high-gloss is for trim.

Red is a stimulant, increasing heart rate, respiratory rate and brain wave activity. It’s good for animated conversation and high activity.

Orange is a social color, encouraging interaction, playfulness and laughter. This is an ideal color for gathering areas of the home.

Yellow lifts the spirit, but it can be hard to use. If there’s too much of it, or it’s too bright, it can agitate and annoy. Yellow stimulates memory and learning, as well as appetite. It’s best used in small quantities, or in spaces occupied for short periods of time, such as laundry rooms or formal dining rooms.

Green moderates and tempers behavior and emotion. Sage green is like a neutral, working well with almost any other color family. Green is very restful, easy and inspiring.

Blue slows respiratory and heart rates, as well as brain wave activity. It is calming—ideal for sleep and relaxation, as well as tasks that require detail.

Violet is best for good sleep and dreaming. It also fosters creativity and meditation.

Brown is stable, safe and nurturing, although too much can be sobering.

White, gray and black are true neutrals. Mother Nature gives us these as background.