Which Paint Sheen Should You Use?
![Paint can](/images/post/199_paintcan.jpg)
Photo by United Soybean Board.
Paint sheen is a term that relates to how shiny paint will be when it's dry. This is more than just a question of aesthetics; shinier paint is typically more durable and more easily cleaned.
Sheen terminology varies slightly between manufacturers, but the following terms are used by most paint lines.
![Paint sheen guide flat eggshell satin semi-gloss gloss](/images/post/199_guide.jpg)
![Gloss finish stencil](/images/post/199_finishmix.jpg)
This wall was painted with a flat finish before a gloss stencil was applied. Source
Note that modern paints are drastically more durable and cleanable than earlier formulas, which means even low-sheen surfaces will be relatively cleanable. But one thing hasn't changed: The higher the sheen, the more surface imperfections and brush strokes you'll see.
All paint stores will have sheen reference cards for your review. Be sure to take a look at this if you're switching to a different brand, as terminology does get shuffled between companies.
What do we use? Well, our old house definitely doesn't have perfect walls - but new ones don't, either. We think walls look best with flat or eggshell finishes. Woodwork varies, but we often use satin on interior trim for a little bit of pop without being overblown. Semi-gloss has its place, but we use it only rarely.