Re-Design Blog

FLAT FINISH: Provides a velvet smooth, non-reflective coating; hides wall defects. Authentic finish for vintage colonial style rooms; good background for art. difficult to clean; sponge marks and fingerprints may show; use in low-traffic areas. gives appearance of light texture; easy to apply. A method to apply color at less-than-full intensity for a softer look in rooms. For a uniform look, use consistent stroke; for freer looks, vary the stroking technique. EGGSHELL: Minimally reflective surface; acceptable base coat for broken color finishes. Same applications as flat finish. Easier to clean than flat finishes. Provides a light dappled appearance. Delicate and elegant effect for translucent color, for whole rooms or room fetures such as molding and trim. Somewhat difficult; execute this effect with a partner. SATIN OR PEARL: Slightly relective; often chosen for trim, moldings in flat-finished rooms; excellent base for broken color finishes. Trim or walls where easy cleaning and low shine are important. Easy to clean; smooth surface may reveal wall flaws; requires good wall prep. Easy effect for applying multiple layers of translucent color. Whole room treatments anywhere in the home; or use as accent treatment on a single wall or feature. Easierst of the broken color finishes; for most delicate looks, must use fine, evenly pored sponges. SEMIGLOSS: Very glossy and durable finish. Same applications as semigloss; use where high shine is desirable. Glossy paint shows every wall flaw; smooth wall essential for best results. Provides a beautiful, complex, and delicate texture. Somewhat dificult; execute this effect with a partner. TEXTURED FINISHES: Depending on degree of texture, gives impression of suede, sand, or nubby fabric. Use where texture makes sense; for the look of aged or rough walls, or to duplicate textured fabric. Requires more paint than other smooth coatings for effective coverage; once applied, can be difficult and messy to remove.