If you choose the right paint for your faux painting you will have a far greater chance of achieving the look you want. The particular paint you choose will depend on whether it is for use inside or out, the surface (wood? concrete?) and the effect you are looking for.

There are dozens of different paints on the market, many for specialised purposes: undercoat and sealer; hard wearing paint for floors and high traffic areas; water-resistant paints and more. Interior paints come in many different varieties suited for use in different areas and for different looks.

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 (which has a matte finish but is not to be confused with matte paint) is the cheapest kind of interior paint, used as basic cover. It isn’t washable and you’ll have to touch it up if it gets dirty, though it does hide surface imperfections. It is not recommended as a base for faux painting, since it inhibits the glaze moving. It’s a useful paint for areas that aren’t going to get dirty and need constant retouching.

Matte paint (not to be confused with flat paint) has a matte finish but contains various materials to help repel dirt and stains. It is washable and, as a higher quality product, will cost you more. This is an interior paint.

Eggshell paint has more gloss and reflectivity than matte paint, but rather than being shiny has the low sheen that you can see on your breakfast egg. It is also used for interior painting.

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 similar to pearl and satin paint, but more reflective. It has the same advantages of being washable and versatile. It is particularly suitable for wood but, with a higher degree of shine, it has a lower capacity to conceal any flaws in the surface.

Gloss paint, at the top of the scale, is high-shine and hence not suitable for all surfaces. If the item or area to be painted is pitted or cracked, it will need dedicated filling and sanding, as any flaws will show clearly. Lower gloss paint may be required.

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.