Painting Techniques: Sheen Types for Interior Paint

Types of lusters refer to how reflective the painted surface is.

Flat or Matte: muted with little to no reflection

• Best for: ceilings and uneven/imperfect walls
• Most common 
• Recommended for drywall and poorly sanded surfaces 
• Prone to scratching and more difficult to clean.
• Washable flat paints are in production but haven't been perfected.  

Eggshell: A low-luster paint, but has a slight sheen which gives it a smoother feeling

• Best for: higher traffic areas (i.e. hallways)
• Resists wear and tear with slight luster 

Satin: Very similar to eggshell, but with a more velvety finish

• Best for: window trim and hallways
• Withstands scrubbing and repels dirt

Semi-gloss: Second shiniest luster

• Best for: accentuating cabinets and banisters
• Frequently used in kitchens and bathrooms 
• Easy to clean and draws attention to imperfections 
• When using semi-gloss, get 100% acrylic latex to ensure the highest quality. 

Gloss: Shiniest luster available that resembles plastic or enamel.

• Best for: cabinets, banisters, trims, door frames, and shelves
• Most durable
• Repels dirt and cleans easily
• Provides a dramatic effect 
• Sanding is required before re-painting with a new finish later on. 

Meredith Woolfolk