Flat vs. Eggshell: The Paint Sheen Showdown
- thatpaintgirl
- Aug 12
- 2 min read

Flat vs. Eggshell: The Paint Sheen Showdown 🎨✨
Picking paint color is fun. Picking paint sheen? Well… it’s where the real drama begins. Think of it like choosing between matte lipstick and a soft gloss—they both look great, but they *do* different things.
Let’s break it down so you can win the **Sheen Showdown** once and for all.
---
Flat Paint – The Smooth Operator
Flat is like your favorite Instagram filter—it hides *everything*. Bumps? Scratches? Weird drywall seams? Flat says, “Shh… no one needs to know.”
Why you’ll love it:
* ** Hides imperfections like magic** – Perfect for older homes or walls that have seen some things.
* ** Soft & cozy vibe** – Zero shine means the light doesn’t bounce all over the place.
* ** Easy on the eyes** – Great for calm, moody spaces.
But…
* Not great for *high-traffic* zones (a.k.a. kid hallways).
* Cleaning it can be tricky—scrub too hard and you might take the paint off with the mess.
Best for:Ceilings, dining rooms, bedrooms that don’t see much action (no judgment).
Eggshell Paint – The Glow Getter
Eggshell is the crowd-pleaser. Just enough sheen to make your walls look alive, but not so shiny that you need sunglasses inside.
Why you’ll love it:
* ** A little glow goes a long way** – Makes colors look richer and rooms feel brighter.
* ** Easier to clean** – Wipe up those coffee splashes without having a meltdown.
* ** Versatile** – Works in almost any room.
But…
* That gentle sheen can highlight wall flaws if you’re up close and personal.
* Not the best for major mess zones like a toddler’s art studio (a.k.a. your living room).
Best for: Living rooms, hallways, bedrooms, anywhere life actually happens.
💡 **Pro Tip from That Paint Girl:** Use flat for ceilings (you *never* want glare up there), eggshell for walls, and a higher gloss for trim. It’s like layering outfits—textures make it interesting, ESPECIALLY when doing a full drench!
Final Verdict
If your walls are runway-ready, go eggshell for that soft glow. If they need a little “behind-the-scenes magic,” go flat. And if you’re still unsure… well, call me. I’ll bring the fan deck and we’ll settle this in person.