AN EASTER INSPIRED COLOUR PALETTE IN OUR TYPES OF PAINTS AND FINISHES

Background in Honest John™ No.58 in Marble Matt Emulsion

Matt paint, gloss paint, eggshell paint- why so many choices and what do they mean? How do you know which paint finish to use for each project? The paint you need to revamp your kitchen cabinets isn’t the same that you’d use to redecorate your living room walls.

The finish of your paint is an important choice as it contributes to the overall look and feel of your interior design scheme as well as its functionality. It’ll draw attention to certain features and detract from others, and some areas might need to be particularly hardwearing.

Here, we’ll guide you through the different types of paint finish and where to use them, so you can arm yourself with the expert knowledge you need to choose the best finish for your project.

Walls in Palmerston Pink™ No.243 in Marble Matt Emulsion, Woodwork in New Lime™ No.149 in Plant-Based Multi-Surface Matt Emulsion

The types of paint finishes explained

You may think you’re simply choosing a blue paint for your living room, but that blue will look quite different depending on the finish that you choose. It’s all about how light reflects off the painted surface. A shiny (high sheen) paint finish reflects much more light than a matt paint. It will also affect how hard-wearing and easy to clean it is. There are many aspects to consider, so within this article we will guide you through the different types of paint finishes available and how they’ll affect the final look of your paint project.

Arm yourself with the expert knowledge you need to choose the best paint for your project.

Gloss paint

Gloss paint finishes are the shiniest and most reflective. High gloss paint is extremely hardwearing and easy to clean. However, the downside of a high gloss finish is that any surface imperfections are very noticeable. So, spending time on prep work and sanding is an absolute must before you start painting.

Gloss paint, particularly in white shades, were predominantly used on woodwork, such as skirting boards and door frames. These days, we’re seeing bolder colour choices. A high sheen finish works well with jewel tones or zesty colours like Burlington Arcade™ No.216 to make a statement. The reflective finish can intensify the colour beautifully, try it on cabinetry or joinery that you want to accentuate, or for a touch of glamour, use gloss paint on an interior wall such as in a dining room or a windowless bathroom. Its reflective surface will catch the eye and create real impact.

Walls and Woodwork in Peach Flesh Pink™ No.268 in Plant-Based Multi-Surface Gloss Emulsion

Walls in Long Acre™ No.102 in Marble Matt Emulsion, Floor in Sinner™ No.238 in Plant-Based Floor Paint Gloss Emulsion

Satin paint

Satin (also known as satinwood) is a slightly confusing term. Yes it’s smooth like satin, but it’s also soft like velvet, and it’s silky too. It’s not shiny and reflective like a gloss paint, but it has a higher sheen than an eggshell paint or matt finish. It’s a mid-point between them (similar to a semi-gloss paint).

Something to beware of with a satin finish is that brushstrokes can be more noticeable than with a matt paint. It’s also not as hardwearing as gloss paint. It’s a good paint finish for woodwork, such as, doors and skirtings or furniture, but it’s also versatile enough to be used on interior walls and ceilings too.

Eggshell paint

Eggshell paint has a higher sheen than matt or flat paint, but it’s much lower than gloss and satin. For example, Mylands eggshell paint finish has a 23% sheen finish compare to 80% for gloss paint. Eggshell is similar to satin paint as it has medium durability, low sheen and low levels of reflection, but this finish has a certain lustre to it, with a surface comparable to that of an actual eggshell. It’s also good at concealing surface imperfections like fingerprints and brushstrokes.

Eggshell paint is typically used on interior woodwork and metalwork, but it’s also suitable for exterior and interior walls. It’s a slightly subdued paint finish with low light bounce. It isn’t as attention-grabbing as a high gloss paint but has a slightly higher lustre and paint sheen than a flat finish.

Window woodwork in Rain JB.03 in Plant-Based Multi-Surface Eggshell Emulsion 

Walls in Floris™ No.27  in Marble Matt Emulsion, Fireplace in Pink House Pink  in Marble Matt Emulsion

Matt paint

Matt, chalky or flat finishes have the lowest sheen level of all, 5% and under. Mylands’ signature finish and perennial favourite, Marble Matt Emulsion, has a 3% sheen and contains super fine ground marble powder for a particularly flat and richly pigmented finish. Meanwhile, Mylands' Plant-Based Multi-Surface Matt paint is 5%, which gives a dead matt finish often favoured in modern interiors [please note: website refers to wood and metal matt at 8% but brochure uses the multi-surface term at 5%]. There is very little reflection on a matt painted surface, which amplifies the depth and richness of the paint colour.

Matt paints are particularly good at covering up surface imperfections and offer a certain style and sophistication to interior walls. However, matt paint isn't the most durable paint finish. It won’t be as resistant to scuffs, marks and dents. Consequently, matt paint finishes are likely to need touch ups more frequently than eggshell, satin or gloss.

Which is the right paint finish to use where?

The general rule is that matt paints are best for low-traffic areas where they’re less likely to get scuffs, dents and marks. Glosses are good for high traffic areas as they’re more hard-wearing.

Door in French Green™ No.187 in Plant-Based Multi-Surface Eggshell Emulsion, Walls in Grouse™ No.75 in Marble Matt Emulsion

For a kitchen or bathroom

These rooms are exposed to regular moisture and can have poor ventilation. Think interior walls in bathrooms, wet rooms, utility rooms or around high-splash areas in kitchens. Gloss paint works well in this environment as it can be wiped down easily.

If you prefer a matt finish, Mylands Marble Matt Emulsion is water-based and breathable which means that it can withstand the daily demands of moisture-rich environments like these.

For high-traffic areas like hallways and family living spaces

Satin paint is ideal for busy areas like a living room or hallway. In fact, anywhere that’s exposed to sticky hands or children charging about needs a durable, washable paint finish like satin.

Alternatively, Mylands Marble Matt Emulsion is specially formulated with the addition of finely powdered marble giving it a unique scrubbable finish. So if you prefer a matt finish, making this a better choice if you prefer a matt finish.

For low traffic areas like bedrooms, offices and dining rooms

Matt paint is a really versatile and popular paint finish. A matt finish creates a cosy and comforting atmosphere with its muted rather than shiny properties. It can be less durable, so it works well in adult bedrooms, offices and other rooms that tend to be exposed to less the hustle and bustle of a home.

For heritage buildings

Heritage homes tend to have lime plaster walls which are permeable and need to be able to breathe. If moisture gets trapped, the wall paint will bubble and crack. Look for more natural paints that are breathable and allow a good flow of air, like our Marble Matt Emulsion.

Heritage surfaces also need good prep work to minimise lumps and bumps. Matt finishes don’t draw the eye to imperfections like gloss paints do, and are an ideal choice for heritage homes.

For woodwork, floors and doors

Gloss paint is particularly good for details. If you want to draw attention to ornate mouldings or intricate woodwork, gloss paints will highlight that feature. Gloss paints also reflect more natural light into a room, making them a good choice for interior window frames.

A satin finish looks good on wooden furniture and is a great way to breathe new life into tired pieces. If your wooden floorboards need an update, a floor paint with a satin finish is just the job.

Mylands’ Plant Based Multi Surface paints are ideal for using across different rooms and surfaces, particularly if you want to use the same colour. It is a beautiful multi-surface plant- based paint range available in four classic, flawless finishes: Dead Matt (5% sheen), Eggshell (15% sheen), Satin (40% sheen) and Gloss (85% sheen), suitable for use on interior and exterior on a variety of surfaces including wood, MDF, metal, plastic, tile, masonry, plaster and uPVC.

For exteriors

You need a paint that can cope with exposure to the elements, be that wind, rain, snow or sun. A specific masonry or exterior paint is recommended and an eggshell finish works best on exterior walls. If your paint project is wood or metal (such as garden fences, gates or railings), a gloss finish is the best choice.

We’re here to help with expert advice on paint finishes

Mylands paints are available in a range of finishes to suit every application.

We ensure our paints are of superior quality, mixed using traditional techniques with rare earth pigments and resins. This makes our paints captivating and highly durable, suitable for both interiors and exteriors.

If you have further questions about choosing the right paint finish, please look at our advice section. We also offer expert colour advice to help you find the right shades for each space.