Eggshell Paint: Uses, Application & Popular Colors

The eggshell paint is low sheen and water-based. It is more reflective than matte and conceals wall imperfections more than satin. It is washable and resists marks. It is used for interior trimmings and is appropriate in halls, bedrooms and living rooms. Finish provides the balance of both cleanability and subtlety and appearance. Warm whites, soft greys, and beige colors are popular. It conceals flaws on the surface, giving them a smooth and elegant appearance.

Eggshell Paint vs. Other Finishes

Feature Flat/Matte Eggshell Satin Semi-Gloss Gloss/High-Gloss
Sheen Level None (0–5%) Low (10–25%) Medium (25–35%) High (35–70%) Very High (70%+)
Durability Low Moderate Good Very Good Excellent
Washability Poor Fair to Good Good Very Good Excellent
Light Reflection Very Low Low Moderate High Very High
Appearance Smooth, velvety Soft, subtle sheen Silky with soft gloss Sleek, noticeable shine Glossy, reflective
Best For Ceilings, adult bedrooms Living rooms, dining areas Kitchens, hallways, kids’ rooms Bathrooms, trims, kitchens Doors, furniture, trim
Surface Imperfection Coverage Excellent Good Moderate Fair Poor
Common Paint Types Emulsion, chalk, limewash Emulsion Acrylic, latex Acrylic, enamel Oil-based, enamel, acrylic

Table of Contents

What are the Best Uses for Eggshell Paint

Here are the best uses for Eggshell paint:

  1. Interior Walls 
  2. Ceilings 
  3. Low-Traffic Areas 
  4. Furniture & Woodwork 

Interior Walls

Eggshell paint is suitable for living areas, bedrooms and hallways. It covers wall imperfections and blemishes better than satin, offers a soft sheen, and Cleans easily without damage.

Ceilings

Use eggshell on ceilings when you desire a soft glow instead of flat. It lightens up areas and has a gentle form of reflection. It makes a seamless finish.

Low-Traffic Areas

Use eggshell in the low-moisture and light-use areas. It does not scuff easily but cannot be used in kitchens or bathrooms where more long-lasting and resistant to moisture paint is required.

Woodwork & Furniture

Apply eggshell on the trim and cabinets and furniture to achieve an elegant, low-lustre appearance. It also does not show any marks and retains the natural look without the shine of the gloss paint.

How to Apply Eggshell Paint

Here are the ways to apply Eggshell paint:

  1. Surface prep 
  2. Drying time & Recoat tips.

Surface Preparation

Wipe surfaces to remove the dirt, dust and grease. Adhesion and coverage is achieved by priming of the bare or patched places. Use a high-quality synthetic brush to apply on edges and a smooth roller to apply on broad areas to achieve an even application.

Drying Time and Recoat

Wait between 4 to 6 hours to dry the paint and then apply a second coating. Complete drying before being painted has the advantage of avoiding peeling. It provides a smooth, hard-wearing finish. Always adhere to the drying recommendations of the paint offering company for best results. 

What are the Best Eggshell Paint Colors?

Here are the best eggshell paint colors:

Color Description Best For
Soft White Clean and versatile with subtle warmth Living rooms, hallways, ceilings
Cream/Off-White Warm and inviting neutral Bedrooms, traditional interiors
Greige Blend of gray and beige; balanced and neutral Open-plan areas, dining rooms
Pale Gray Light, airy gray with a cool undertone Bedrooms, modern living spaces
Sage Green Earthy green with a calming tone Bathrooms, bedrooms, nature-inspired spaces
Dusty Blue Muted blue with a soft, serene feel Bedrooms, nurseries, coastal themes
Muted Lavender Soft purple-gray for a peaceful vibe Guest rooms, reading corners
Beige/Taupe Warm, classic neutral Hallways, dining rooms, traditional homes
Pale Peach Warm, subtle pinkish-orange Kitchens, cozy bedrooms, kids’ rooms
Warm Terracotta Earthy orange-brown with rustic charm Accent walls, artistic interiors

Common Questions (FAQ)

Can you use eggshell paint in a bathroom?

No, eggshell isn’t moisture-resistant. It’s not suitable for bathrooms. Use satin or semi-gloss instead of it.

Does eggshell paint hide imperfections?

Yes, the eggshell hides flaws on the surface more than satin or gloss. It has a low sheen which makes blemishes less noticeable. 

Can you paint eggshell over satin or semi-gloss?

Yes, but sand the surface first. Light sanding improves adhesion and prevents peeling.

Is eggshell paint good for kitchen cabinets?

No, it is not advisable. Cabinets need a tougher finish like satin, semi-gloss, or cabinet-grade paint.

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