The Beginner’s Guide to Paint Finishes: Gloss, Satin, Matte, and More

paint finishes

If you’re new to painting, you might be surprised to learn that picking a paint color is only part of the story. Equally important is choosing the right paint finish—and that can make all the difference in how your project turns out. 

But what exactly is a paint finish, and why does it matter?

Don’t worry, we’re here to walk you through everything you need to know so you can make the best choice for your home.

A paint finish refers to how shiny or dull the final look of the paint will be once it’s dry. The finish affects not only how your painted surface looks but also how durable it is and how easy it is to clean. 

Let’s dive in and explore the different types of paint finishes so you can pick the right one for your next project.

Overview of Common Paint Finishes

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There are several common paint finishes you’ll come across when choosing paint for your home. Here are the main types you’ll need to know about:

  • Gloss
  • Semi-Gloss
  • Satin
  • Eggshell
  • Matte/Flat

Each of these finishes has its own look and practical benefits, so it’s important to understand what sets them apart.

Characteristics of Each Finish

gocolorize a close up of a modern kitchen table with a high gloss

Knowing the characteristics of each paint finish can help you make an informed decision about which one is best for your project. 

Different finishes offer different levels of durability, shine, and ease of cleaning, so let’s break down what each one has to offer.

Gloss

Gloss paint has a shiny, reflective finish. It’s the most durable and easy to clean, making it perfect for high-traffic areas or surfaces that get a lot of wear and tear, like trim, doors, and cabinets. 

If you want something that stands out and looks polished, gloss is a great choice—just be aware that it can highlight imperfections on the surface.

Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss has a slightly lower shine than gloss, but it still has enough sheen to be easy to clean. It works well in rooms with higher moisture levels, like kitchens and bathrooms, or areas that need regular wiping down, such as baseboards.

Satin

Satin is a versatile finish that gives a soft, smooth sheen without being too shiny. It’s a great choice for most rooms in the house, from living areas to hallways, because it strikes a nice balance between durability and aesthetics. 

Satin finishes are also easier to clean compared to matte options, which makes them popular for family spaces.

Eggshell

Eggshell is named after the subtle, soft sheen you find on an eggshell. It’s less shiny than satin but still gives a touch of warmth and depth to your walls. 

Eggshell is a popular choice for living rooms and dining rooms because it hides imperfections well while providing a more refined look than flat paint.

Matte/Flat

Matte (or flat) paint has no shine at all, which makes it excellent for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings. 

This finish gives a rich, smooth appearance and is ideal for surfaces that won’t be touched often, like ceilings or low-traffic areas. 

Modern matte finishes have come a long way—many are now designed to be wipeable and cleaned, making them more practical for interior walls than older matte paints.

Where to Use Each Paint Finish

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Choosing the right paint finish depends not only on the look you’re going for but also on where you’re painting and how much wear and tear the area is likely to get. 

Here are some recommendations:

  • Gloss: Gloss paint has a shiny, reflective finish. It’s durable and easy to clean, making it perfect for doors and cabinets. Gloss will highlight imperfections on the surface, so it works best on smooth, well-prepared areas.
  • Semi-Gloss: Semi-gloss is the finish most commonly used on trim because of its durability and ease of cleaning, and it looks great! It’s also perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and kids’ rooms—anywhere that needs regular cleaning.
  • Satin: Works well in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. It offers a bit of shine and is easy to wipe clean, making it great for family areas.
  • Eggshell: Ideal for dining rooms, living rooms, and spaces where you want a softer look that still provides a touch of elegance.
  • Matte/Flat: Great for ceilings or walls with imperfections. It’s perfect for areas where you want to avoid any shine, like formal spaces or rooms with less traffic.

Pros and Cons of Different Finishes

Each finish comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:

Finish TypeProsCons
GlossHighly durable, easy to clean, great for high-traffic areas.Highlights surface imperfections, more expensive.
Semi-GlossDurable, moisture-resistant, easy to clean.Highlights some surface flaws, may be too shiny.
SatinSoft sheen, versatile, easy to clean.Can show brush strokes or roller marks.
EggshellLow sheen, hides imperfections, adds warmth.Not as easy to clean as glossier finishes.
Matte/FlatHides imperfections well, non-reflective, great for ceilings.Traditionally harder to clean, though modern versions are improving.

Tips for Choosing the Right Finish for Your Project

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When deciding which paint finish to use, consider the following factors:

Room Type: Bathrooms and kitchens benefit from finishes that are moisture-resistant and easy to clean, like semi-gloss or satin. Living rooms and bedrooms might be better suited for eggshell or satin finishes for a comfortable look.

Surface Condition: If your walls have imperfections, a matte or eggshell finish will do a better job of hiding them compared to gloss or semi-gloss.

Level of Traffic: High-traffic areas, like hallways or playrooms, need finishes that are durable and easy to clean, such as satin or semi-gloss.

For example, if you’re painting a kids’ bedroom, a satin or semi-gloss finish might be ideal since it’s both durable and wipeable. On the other hand, for a formal dining room, an eggshell finish can create a sophisticated, warm atmosphere.

Conclusion

Choosing the right paint finish might seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on the final look and practicality of your project. 

Whether you need something that’s easy to clean or a finish that will hide imperfections, there’s a paint finish that’s perfect for your needs. 

Don’t be afraid to experiment—sometimes trying different finishes is the best way to discover what works best for your space.

FAQs About Paint Finishes

Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify any doubts you might have about choosing the right paint finish for your project.

Can I mix finishes in the same room? 

Yes, absolutely! Many people use a combination of finishes—for example, using a satin finish on the walls and a gloss finish for trim and doors to add some contrast.

Can I use matte paint in a bathroom? 

It’s possible, but it’s generally better to use a semi-gloss or satin finish for moisture resistance. However, some modern matte paints are formulated to be more moisture-resistant.

What is the difference between satin and eggshell finishes? 

Satin has a slightly higher sheen than eggshell, making it a bit more durable and easier to clean. Eggshell, on the other hand, has a softer look and does a great job hiding wall imperfections.

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