How-To - Painting

Paint finishes

By: Celerie Kemble

Know what type of paint finish to use and where in your home with this handy cheat sheet.

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Besides having clearly different visual qualities, paint finishes exist for different purposes. Here’s a foolproof cheat sheet to take with you when you are buying paint.

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Photography by Zach DeSart

FLAT

Pros: Because it reflects little light, a flat finish is good for concealing imperfections and has a classic old-world feel.
Cons: Arguably the most delicate of the bunch, flat-finish paint is difficult to clean and will show every scuff and fingerprint.
Where to use it: A low-traffic area, or on the ceiling.

EGGSHELL

Pros: This has some of the lowsheen qualities of a flat finish, but is a bit easier to care for.
Cons: It’s still difficult to clean and marks easily.
Where to use: it Almost any room, barring kid-heavy zones.

SEMIGLOSS

Pros: Reflects a significant amount of light and is easy to clean.
Cons: Reveals every imperfection in your walls, every brushstroke, and the frequent “orange-peel finish” of a roller brush.
Where to use: it It’s ideal for doors, trim, casework, bathrooms, and kitchens. Make sure walls get a good skim coat first.