Choosing Paint:
Paint Sheen or Gloss
Flat:
No sheen, not washable or not very washable, touches up easily, hides imperfections, perfect for ceilings or walls with a lot of imperfections.Matte:
Very slight sheen close to flat, usually only comes in higher grades of paint, usually reasonably washable after curing, doesn't highlight imperfections very much, excellent for all walls.Eggshell:
Light to moderate sheen, higher grades of paint are usually reasonably washable after curing, can highlight imperfections depending on lighting , excellent for all walls in reasonably good condition.Satin:
Moderate sheen, usually reasonably washable after curing, would highlight imperfections on walls , enamel is excellent for trim, wall paint should generally only be used in kitchens and bathrooms.Semi- gloss:
Definite sheen, usually washable after curing, would highlight imperfections on walls , enamel is excellent for trim wall paint should generally only be used for commercial kitchens and bathrooms.Gloss:
Basically the same as High-Gloss. Some companies use the terms interchangeably but sometimes gloss can have slightly less sheen than high-gloss.High-Gloss:
Very high sheen, generally very durable and washable, excellent for trim, furniture, and certain industrial and commercial applications.Back to: Do It Yourself

