The Paint Sheen Cheat Sheet: What Goes Where?
Choosing a paint color is only half the battle. Once you’ve fallen in love with “Dove Whisper” or “Coastal Cloud,” you’ll be faced with another decision: what sheen should you use? Flat, satin, gloss—they all sound nice enough but pick the wrong one and you may miss out on the feel you’re trying to create.
Think of sheen as your paint’s personality. It affects how shiny the surface looks, how well it hides flaws, and how easy it is to clean. Here’s a cheat sheet to help you select the right finish for every space in your home.
Paint Sheen Cheat Sheet
Flat / Matte
Flat (or matte) paint has a non-reflective, velvety appearance. It’s wonderful for disguising imperfections on your walls and creates a soft, cozy backdrop. The downside? It scuffs easily and isn’t very washable. It’s perfect if you want your walls to keep secrets—not so perfect if your kids treat every surface like a canvas.
Best for: ceilings, low-traffic rooms, and bedrooms that don’t see much chaos.
Eggshell
Eggshell offers just a touch more sheen than flat paint, giving walls a gentle glow. It wipes clean more easily than matte finishes but still has a subtle, understated look.
Best for: living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.
Pearl
Not every paint line offers Pearl, but when it’s available, it bridges the gap between eggshell and satin. Imagine Eggshell’s older, more sophisticated cousin—the one who owns matching towels and actually irons their clothes. With a refined luster, it’s durable enough for spaces that need a little more resilience.
Best for: hallways, bathrooms, and trim.
Satin
Satin has a smooth finish with more visible shine. It’s durable, easy to clean, and holds up well in spaces where life gets a little messy. The tradeoff: it reveals wall imperfections more than eggshell or pearl.
Best for: kitchens, kids’ rooms, and busy hallways.
Semi-Gloss
Semi-gloss is where things get noticeably shiny. It’s tough, moisture-resistant, and highly scrubbable, making it an excellent choice for hardworking surfaces. Semi-gloss is like that friend who’s brutally honest and points out every bump, crack, and dent in you or your walls.
Best for: bathrooms, trim, doors, and moldings.
Gloss / High-Gloss
Gloss (or high-gloss) is the most reflective and durable of all finishes. It creates a dramatic, statement-making look, but it’s unforgiving—flawless surface preparation is non-negotiable.
Best for: accent walls, furniture, and bold design moments.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right paint sheen is about balancing aesthetics with practicality. Soft and velvety for quiet spaces, wipeable for busy ones, and glossy for when you want drama. With this cheat sheet, you can skip the guesswork and land on the perfect finish for each room.
Now, what will you do next to love where you live?
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