Skip Semigloss Paint! 13 Shining Examples of Why Lacquer Can Be Better
Like a fresh coat of glossy red nail polish, a lacquered wall feels chic, sleek, and downright glamorous.
Though matte and semigloss are often the standard finishes when it comes to interior paint, there is something to be said for the calculated and clever use of high-shine, light-reflecting, “flossy, flossy” lacquer.
This particular finish amplifies light where there is little and creates a backdrop that is — above all else — slick. It is the perfect counterpart to textured fabrics and matte furniture and transforms otherwise plain and lackluster spaces into something much more lively.
That being said, the use of high-gloss paint should be carefully considered.
First and foremost, choose your space wisely. Lacquer finishes are best when used in rooms and areas that could use a little more light or interest.
A dimly lit bathroom or shady wall in a larger living space will benefit greatly from gloss’s light-reflecting properties. And don’t be afraid to pair those properties with something bold! Richer colors such as blues, burgundies, and even blacks come to life when you skip traditional flats and mattes.
On the other hand, a bright, sunny room can appear almost jarring and uncomfortable when its inherent qualities are amplified by such a paint finish. In rooms such as this, we suggest considering a shade of white if you’re intent on high-shine no matter what.
Once you’ve selected your space, it is vital to remember the four key ingredients to high-gloss success: prepping, priming, having the right tools, and keeping your coats thin.
Every last imperfection, bump, lump, and grain of dust will muddy that wall of luxurious, liquidy perfection you’re trying to achieve, so make sure your surfaces are smooth and clean before you prime them.
When applying, don’t use just any old brush — be sure to use synthetic bristles and foam rollers designed for high-gloss latex paint. The key is to avoid brush marks and roller ridges, so choose your weapon wisely.
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Though it’s fun to load up your brush or roller with lots of lush paint, try to resist the urge. Thin, careful coats are the way forward with this particular finish. The thinner the layer, the less likely you are to see brush marks and lines, and allowing coats to dry between applications helps ensure a perfect end result.
Is working with high-gloss paint trickier than more commonly used finishes? Yes, absolutely. Is it really worth the effort? Oh, yes, it really is.
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