Painting and decorating
November 3, 2026 · 10 min read
Painting and decorating
Painting and decorating guides.
Prep, paint and a finish that lasts.
Matt vs silk vs soft sheenWhere each finish belongs, sheen levels and touch-ups.
How to prep walls for paintingCleaning, repairing and priming surfaces.
Avoiding roller marksPro techniques for walls and ceilings.Choosing paint and finishes
Technique and a better finish
Colour and design
Questions.
Should I use matt or silk emulsion on walls?
Matt has a low sheen that hides small imperfections, so it suits most walls and ceilings. Silk is shinier and easier to wipe clean, but it shows up any bumps or patches in the wall.
How do I paint new plaster?
Let the plaster dry fully, then apply a mist coat (watered-down matt emulsion) to seal it before your top coats. Vinyl or wipeable emulsions shouldn’t go straight on as a first coat because they can peel.
Can I paint straight over gloss?
Not without preparation. Clean and lightly sand the gloss to give it a key, then use a suitable primer or undercoat, especially if you’re going over oil-based gloss with water-based paint.
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Category: Painting and decorating
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