How to Choose the Right Paint: A Simple Guide for Your Next Project

Lost in the Paint Aisle?

Walking into a paint store can be overwhelming. Eggshell or satin? Latex or oil-based? Premium or one-coat? It’s enough to make you grab the nearest can and run. But take a deep breath! Choosing the right paint is easier than you think once you know what the labels mean. Let’s break it down into three simple questions.

Step 1: Pick Your Sheen (The Shine Level)
This is about durability and how light reflects. Here’s the quick guide, from least to most shiny:

Flat/Matte: No shine. Perfect for hiding imperfections on ceilings and low-traffic adult bedrooms. Not very washable.
Eggshell: A velvety, low-sheen glow. Our #1 pick for most walls (living rooms, hallways, bedrooms). Offers some washability.
Satin:A soft, pearl-like sheen. More durable and washable. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, kids’ rooms, and trim. (A top choice for trim too!).
Semi-Gloss & Gloss: Shiny and super tough. Use for trim, doors, cabinets, and any high-moisture area. Highlights imperfections on walls.

Simple Rule: The higher the sheen, the more durable and washable—but the more it shows wall flaws.

Step 2: Pick Your Base (The Paint Type)
For 95% of DIY jobs, you want water-based (latex) paint.

Why? It dries fast, cleans up with soap and water, has low odor, and is flexible.
When to Use Oil/Alkyd: Only for specific situations like metal railings, or when you need an ultra-hard, smooth finish on trim (though modern latex enamels are catching up!). Requires mineral spirits for cleanup.

Step 3: Don’t Skimp on Quality

Budget Paint: Requires more coats (often 3+), has less pigment, and wears out faster.
Premium Paint: Goes on smoother, offers better coverage (often in 1-2 coats), is more durable, and retains its color longer.
Our Advice: It’s almost always worth the upgrade. You’ll use less, finish faster, and have better-lasting results.

Pro-Tip: Test Your Color!

Never, ever pick a color from a tiny chip or a screen! Buy a small sample pot and paint a large poster board. Move it around the room at different times of day. See it in your light, next to your furniture. This small step saves huge regrets.

Wrapping It Up

So, for your next living room refresh? You’ll likely want a Premium, Latex, Eggshell paint. Painting kitchen cabinets? Try a Premium, Latex, Semi-Gloss Enamel. See? Once you know the code, it’s simple!

Still unsure about what to pick for your specific project? Tell me about it in the comments, and I’ll point you in the right direction!