Which paint you should choose will depend on where you want to use it and the particular effect you want. High quality paint is always worth buying to achieve the best finish but you will also need to match the type of paint to the room, the surface and location (indoor or outdoor) that you will be transforming.

Numerous paints exist to fulfill particular functions, from priming new plaster to creating water and steam resistant finishes and scuff proof finishes for high traffic areas. A spectrum of basic paint types are typically used for interior paint jobs.

Different manufacturers describe their paint in different ways but the key distinguishing factors are: oil or water based paint and degree of gloss. 100 gloss paint creates a high shine finish that will show up any cracks or dents in the surface. High gloss paints can be brittle and chip more easily.

Flat paint is a non glossy paint with a matte finish, useful for hiding surface flaws. Matte paint is also the name of a type of paint, so be aware of the distinction. Flat paint is not washable and if it gets scuffed or marked will need repainting. If your surface is covered in flat paint, consider repainting, because this is the least favourable paint surface on which to achieve faux painting effects. The reasons relate to the excessive speed at which subsequent layers of paint will dry, and the effect it has on the colour of paint applied on to it.

Matte paint (not to be confused with flat paint) has a matte finish but contains various materials to help repel dirt and stains. It is washable and, as a higher quality product, will cost you more. This is an interior paint.

Eggshell paint is one rung up on the glossiness scale. Also used for interiors, it has the muted shine that you can observe on an egg.

Satin paints and pearl paints are comparable products that result in a more velvety finish and a higher degree of glossiness. Different manufacturers may describe their products as satin or pearl, but they are much the same thing.

An ideal, washable paint for bathrooms and kitchens, satin or pearl paint is suitable for walls or wood and is the recommended paint for the surface on which faux painting will be carried out. Paint applied on top of this paint will not dry fast, which means that it has the maximum ‘spreadability’ that faux painting requires.

Semi gloss paint is used especially for wood. It shares many properties with satin or pearl paint and is easy to wipe down and clean. As the percentage of gloss increases, so does the ability of paint to cover dents or other surface imperfections. Semi gloss paint may therefore not be ideal for some surfaces.

Gloss paint, at the top of the scale, is high shine and hence not suitable for all surfaces. If the item or area to be painted is pitted or cracked, it will need dedicated filling and sanding, as any flaws will show clearly. Lower gloss paint may be required.

If you want the best possible effect, know which paint is which and the advantages and disadvantages of each. You don’t want to have to start over. Good materials, carefully matched to the purpose for which they are intended, are one of the secrets of successful faux painting.