How paint actually works

Reference pieces — sheens, primers, paint chemistry, color theory, undertones. Skim it, save it, send it to the friend who keeps asking what eggshell means.

EXPLAINER

Paint Sheen Guide: Matte vs Eggshell vs Satin vs Semi-Gloss vs Gloss

Five sheen levels, gloss-unit numbers for each, and which one belongs in which room. The reference page you can text to a friend.