Hey y’all, it’s your girl Joe here. I’m a designer by day and a DIY-er by night. Let me tell you, I’ve had my fair share of paint mishaps.
But, let me tell you about the time I decided to paint my living room. I wanted to go with a subtle, yet elegant look, so I figured eggshell paint would do the trick.
I was feeling pretty proud of myself as I finished the first coat, but then disaster struck. I realized I had accidentally grabbed flat paint instead. My living room looked dull and lifeless. I was so embarrassed when my friends came over and saw it. But, hey, live and learn, right?
Anyways, that’s just a little story to show you that even designers make mistakes.
But, let’s talk about the real question at hand: do designers use flat or eggshell paint? It’s a tricky question, but the short answer is, it depends on the project and the desired look.
So, let’s dive deeper and explore the differences between the two types of paint and when you should use them.
Flat Paint
Flat paint, also known as matte paint, is a non-reflective paint with no shine. It’s perfect for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings. It’s also great for creating a smooth, even finish.
Some of the pros of using flat paint include:
- Hides imperfections on walls and ceilings
- Provides a smooth, even finish
- Doesn’t show fingerprints or smudges
However, there are also some cons to using flat paint, including:
- Not easy to clean
- Not durable
- Not suitable for high traffic areas
Eggshell Paint
Eggshell paint, on the other hand, is a low-lustre paint that has a slight shine to it. It’s perfect for creating a subtle, yet elegant look. It’s also more durable than flat paint and easier to clean.
Some of the pros of using eggshell paint include:
- Creates a subtle, elegant look
- More durable than flat paint
- Easier to clean
However, there are also some cons to using eggshell paint, including:
- Not suitable for hiding imperfections
- Shows fingerprints and smudges more easily
- Not as smooth as flat paint
When to Use Flat or Eggshell Paint
Now, the million-dollar question: when should you use flat or eggshell paint? As a designer, it’s important to consider the project and the desired look.
If you’re looking to hide imperfections on walls and ceilings and create a smooth, even finish, flat paint is the way to go. It’s perfect for low traffic areas like bedrooms and formal living rooms.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to create a subtle, yet elegant look and the area is a high traffic one like a kitchen or a hallway, eggshell paint is the best option. It’s more durable and easier to clean, making it perfect for those areas that get a lot of use.
FAQ
Q: Can I use flat paint in high traffic areas?
A: While flat paint is great for hiding imperfections and creating a smooth finish, it’s not the best option for high traffic areas.
It’s not as durable and can be harder to clean, so it’s best to use eggshell paint in those areas.
Q: Can I use eggshell paint to hide imperfections?
A: Eggshell paint is not the best option for hiding imperfections. It has a slight shine to it and will not be able to conceal those imperfections as well as flat paint would.
Q: Can I use a semi-gloss paint instead of eggshell paint?
A: While semi-gloss paint is more durable and easier to clean than eggshell paint, it also has a higher shine.
So, if you’re looking for a subtle, elegant look, eggshell paint is the way to go. But, if you’re looking for a more high-gloss look, semi-gloss paint is a great option.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, whether you’re a designer or a DIY-er, choosing the right paint can make a big difference in the final outcome of your project.
Flat paint is great for hiding imperfections and creating a smooth finish, while eggshell paint is perfect for creating a subtle, yet elegant look.
Just remember, when in doubt, always go for the more durable and easy to clean option. Happy painting, y’all!