I'm working with a client currently who actually isn't even in the same city...country for that matter as us. I find myself forgetting sometimes when we're chatting over the phone, to give small details of information. I don't think of it at the time because I just know what I would go and purchase and forget that they probably aren't too sure. What am talking about? PAINT! #allthecolors Why are we talking paint? Because this client of mine is actually a special case. They aren't just an "eDesign" client, they are actually an "in person" client too. So I not only do eDesign, but I also go on site as well. Their package is somewhat customized. I have been working with them for a while now, but the actual physical labor has finally commenced this past week. I get a text asking, what type of sheen (paint finish) should the painters be using. Man!-I didn't even think to give him that detail even after supplying him with the brand and hex color codes. There is so much more to the paint than just the color. The finish (sheen), what each finish will accomplish, and what area of the space should have what finish etc. So here it is...a solid guide to paint.
The Finishes:
Matte- has the ability to cover and hide small wall imperfections and flaws. It's used a lot with older homes with walls that have "character". A matte finish shouldn't be used on walls that will require constant cleaning or high traffic areas. It can be used in any room really, as long as the traffic area is less.
Eggshell- it is a dulled down version of satin. Not glossy but can withstand traffic areas. This is type of finish is most commonly found in the kitchen, bathroom, children's rooms, sun rooms etc. It is one of the most popular finishes because of its clean-ability rating. (I made that word up...you can totally use it too though, and the rating...nobody rates cleanable paint- I also made that up, I'm on a roll today!)
Satin- this is the shinier version of eggshell. I personally love satin, it's my go to. I just hate the word eggshell, I'm vegan I have rights! Ok but all jokes aside, its easily maintained a slightly cuter then eggshell, it's also not so shiny that you have a glare from any lights reflecting from the walls. This paint finish can used everywhere...playrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, hallways, offices, even on trim and window sills. BAM!- she's a jack of trades.
Semi-gloss- known for its durability and washability. The finish features a visible shine and is used in areas that are considered to be “high-moisture” like the bathroom. If you do use the paint in rooms with a higher moisture content, make you sure you look at paints that are formulated for mildew-resistance.
Gloss- delivers the highest amount of durability and shine of all paints. Use gloss finished paints to highlight the woodwork on trim, doors and smaller architectural features. I love using Gloss as an accent to to a stencil making the pain look like a wall paper. I used this in my dining room, accented with the same paint color but a different finish. The highly washable paint can be used on cabinets and woodwork and is a great way to accent walls in a modern kitchen or bath.
Happy Painting!
photo: selfstyled.com . freshdesignpedia.com . otisundersky.com .