The right paint for the right job is key. We're a big champion of that, one tin doesn't fit all! But we also want to keep it simple - so we've created a guide for you to choose the right paint for your next interior DIY project. Thank us later.

We've also made our product range ridiculously easy too, with just four types of paint finishes: Flat Matt Emulsion for your walls, Soft Sheen Emulsion for your Kitchen or Bathroom, Eggshell for your interior wood and metal work and Exterior Eggshell for anything masonry, metal and wood outdoors. Anywhere, here you go.

The Sheens

Ever heard the words ‘paint sheen chart’ and thought, what the hell is that mate? Well, even paint is measured on a scale. 

In fact, finding the right colour is half the battle. Different rooms need different types of paint.

The sheen level of a paint is basically the lustre, or shine, measured by reflecting light off the painted surface. From 0 > 100, the higher the percentage, the shinier the finish. So a matt finish would be 10% or below, while a glossy finish would usually be 60% and up, with everything else in between.

Most people prefer a matt finish, and the more matt the better for some. Finishes with a bit of shine like soft sheen are usually destined for wet areas in the kitchen or bathroom, because they resist moisture and wipe clean easily. Often they're mould resistant too. which is nice.

Explore our range of Flat Matt, Eggshell or Soft Sheen now ✌️ 

The Paints

Flat Matt Emulsion Paint

Has a rich chalky finish. A true flat matt emulsion paint will have a sheen level below 3% and is ideal for hiding wall imperfections. It’s good for pretty much any interior wall or ceiling surface. COAT Walls and Ceilings Paint is a dead flat matt with a 2% sheen, ensuring a really premium look as well as being super hardy and easy to clean.

The most common types of wall paints are flat matt and soft sheen. Although you’ll find their names vary from brand to brand.

Eggshell Paint

The one for woodwork and trim. One up from matt, this popular low sheen paint looks great and stands up to years of knocks and scuffs. Back in the day you'd paint your walls with it too, but flat matt stole the march there. It was made for the tough life in doorways, on skirting and upcycling furniture so it’s stain resistant and easy to clean.

Eggshell vs Matt? It’ll depend on what you’re going to paint. Simple.

Soft Sheen Emulsion Paint

With a silky look, paint with a soft paint sheen (between 15% and 35%) is great for reflecting more light into spaces and it also does well in humid rooms. Ever had watermarks on the paintwork in your bathroom? Sounds like you need soft sheen. COAT Kitchen and Bathroom Paint is soft sheen, mould resistant and wipeable too.  

@joeykendalbrown using eggshell for her kitchen makeover. In shades Modest & The Record Store.

Gloss and High Gloss Paint

Proper shiny, gloss paint is classically used on door frames, skirting and banisters, traditionally solvent based to get the extra shine. You'll remember this from years gone by due to the strong paint smell and the fact it always yellows. Paint sheens have moved on... leave gloss in the past. If really want a piece of glossy furniture you're probably best speaking to a pro for a sprayed finish.

Why Are There Different Types of Room Paints?

Can you use the same type of paint for every room of the house? Ideally, but no. Life just isn’t easy like that. But if you’re new to the world of room paint, we want to make it simple. Let’s talk about the why and where. See, paint isn’t just about colour; it’s about the surface. Although choosing a shade is definitely the best bit. So, before you start painting your walls, we’re gonna clear a few things up to demystify the jargon a bit.

Grab a Colour Card and explore our range of tasteful shades. Pssst, they're FREE too.

At COAT, we offer three different types of interior paints for a reason. Not every room is the same as the next. Different areas have different microclimates. In a nutshell, some paints are better to use on walls than others. For instance, look at how humid the bathroom gets when you’ve been in the shower too long. In here, it’s important to use a paint that can put up with this amount of moisture. Similarly, a kitchen is more likely to see sticky fingerprints or oily marks on the walls. Again, this calls for a paint that is easy to keep clean. Go with the wrong finish, however, and it might even wipe off. An expensive re-paint job you really dont need. So, when it comes to choosing new paint - Picture the room. Consider its function and how much traffic it gets. Our paint finishes cover every single room of the house to keep your home looking hot. And your walls looking spot on. Choose from Flat Matt or Soft Sheen. Room dependent. And perfect for a glow-up whenever you’re feeling a change.

Why Do I Need a Different Type of Paint for Different Materials?

Different types of paint have many different roles. And this doesn’t end with walls either. Like we said, it’s not a case of ‘one tin’ fits all. Although that would be nice. You need to use a paint that would work for the surface that you’re painting. For example, some paints are designed to be wiped. Some are designed to hide flaws. Each one has a purpose. We suppose like us. You wouldn’t use flat matt to paint metal. Would you? Stop. It’ll likely peel before you’ve even finished the job.

Want to have all the gear and all the ideas? Shop our range of tools and painting supplies 🤩

Metal, in particular, is renowned for being a sneaky bugger to paint. For this reason, you couldn’t take a tin of our flat matt and simply slap it on. So if you plan to upcycle a metal table or chair or even paint an interior door, a tin of Eggshell is what you really need. Formulated by us for you and your stuff, this paint has been designed for the sole purpose of painting metal and wood. This high-grade paint will also resist knocks and scuff marks, so you shouldn’t have to use it again. Or at least for a while. Aren’t you glad we’ve covered all the bases?

Top Tips For Choosing the Right Sheen

When deciding on a type of paint finish, give it some thought. You might regret it if you choose the wrong one. We know it’s not exactly exciting but it really matters. It could be the difference between a room looking fantastic or looking a state. As our paint ranges from dead matt to soft-sheen, there’s a big difference right there. So think about where you’re painting and choose wisely. To help, we’ve put together some tips to help you pick the right one. A LOT will influence this choice.

Hide Imperfections With a Low Sheen

Although we do three different types of paint sheens, dead Flat Matt is by far our most popular one. Not only does it give a modern matt finish, but it’s super durable too. And best of all it hides crap walls. If yours have become the victim of bumps and scratches, COAT’s Flat Matt is the one for the job. This low sheen paint will cover up imperfections no probs so it’s great for households with kids. Use it in your bedroom, living room, or on your ceiling.

Choose a Higher Sheen To Reflect The Light

Paint is a tried-and-true trick for those rooms lacking in light. And we don’t mean the colour either. Choose paint with a slightly higher sheen and it’ll bounce light around the room. Like our Soft Sheen or Eggshell. Creating depth without appearing overly shiny, these high-grade COAT paints are also formulated for living and are super hardy. In fact, Soft Sheen can appear slightly matt and shiny depending on the lighting. Best of both worlds we say.

Use a Lower Sheen For Woodwork

Debate Club in all it's glory. Panelling painted using our durable eggshell finish by @annaandminiwolf

If you're painting woodwork like doors or panelling, Eggshell's your paint. It looks so much better than high-gloss. It also protects against everyday wear like sticky prints and shoe marks. Matt wouldn’t stand a chance. Eggshell finishes are also easier to clean compared to others, meaning you can wipe your skirtings with very little effort. If you’re adamant you want a shiny finish, however, go on then get gloss. But we’ll warn you it can be hard to work with.

Bathrooms Need a Higher Sheen

Planning a bathroom makeover? Sounds amazing. You’ll need a paint that can put up with hot showers and light scrubbing. Because what's the point of painting the walls for it to come off when it’s wet. Bathrooms need a higher sheen and nothing less. High-grade, and chic, with a classy slight gleam, Soft Sheen is highly-resistant to steam and staining. It’s also great for the walls in kids' rooms and the kitchen as well. You’ll thank us when it’s cleaning day.

@joeykendallbrown creating magic in her bathroom using Duvet Day in Soft Sheen. 

So there you have it, the best paints and sheens for the right project. It's easy to get the right paint for your home with COAT. Shop Now.