Paint technologists have produced specialist paints for a wide variety of purposes, and every stage of the process from sealing newly plastered surfaces to creating wear-resistant floor covers. For interior use there are a few standard paint varieties that you need to know about.

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 is a type of interior paint that, though it also has a matte finish, is a pricier and higher quality product, designed to be washable and resist dirt. It typically contains special ingredients to achieve this purpose and is accordingly more expensive.

Eggshell paint has more gloss than matte paint but it has only a hint of shininess, comparable (as the name suggests) to that of an egg. This too is an interior paint.

Satin and pearl paints are essentially the same thing, but different brands use different names for essentially comparable products. It gives a smooth, velvety finish.

Satin or pearl paint is the ideal base for faux painting because it allows the glaze to spread smoothly and dry slowly. These are versatile, easy to clean, multi-purpose paints that can be used on woodwork, such as doors and window frames, as well as walls. They are also water and steam-resistant and are good for bathrooms and kitchens.

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 is richly glossy, highly reflective, creating a finish as smooth as plastic. It will show up the slightest imperfections so surface preparation - filling and sanding to a very smooth finish - is absolutely vital.

Skimping on paint quality just isn't worth it. If you buy good paint and use it in the right places, you'll save yourself having to buy more to touch up or redo it in a short space of time. For faux painting, choosing the right paint is crucial to achieving the effects you've visualized.