Get the paint finish you really want

MAKE IT MATTE.
Matte paint (also known as dead flat paint) has no sheen and gives a chalky, contemporary finish.
 Pro: It disguises small imperfections in walls.
 Con: Stains won't wash off easily.

GO FOR A SLIGHT SHEEN.
Eggshell paint has a beautiful egglike sheen.
 Pro: It reflects more light into the room than a matte finish.
 Con: It's more practical than matte paint but can only be washed very lightly.

PICK PRACTICAL SATIN.
Satin paint is slightly shinier than eggshell and more practical.
Pro: It can be scrubbed lightly and is great for bathrooms.
Con: Walls can sometimes look more like they belong in a store than in a home.

SELECT A SUBTLE SHINE.
Semigloss offers shine without glitz. Use it on doors, windows and trims.
Pro: It's easy to wash.
Con: The finish is too shiny to use on walls.

GIVE WOODWORK A GLOSSY SHINE.
This very shiny finish for doors, windows and trim looks like enamel.
Pro: It's very easy to wash.
Con: The high-gloss shine shows imperfections.