1 Measure up
Paint shades can subtly differ between batches, so it's best to buy the right amount from the outset. ‘Measure the length and height of the space, then multiply the figures together to get the total square metres,’ says Emma Bestley, Creative Director and Co-Founder of YesColours. Then, check the square-metre coverage per litre of paint and work out how many tins you'll need (and always round up). ‘For a whole room, we suggest measuring each wall, then adding them together,’ continues Emma. ‘And a precise laser measure is great for angled walls.’ If you're trying a colour-drenched look, with the same colour on the walls and ceilings, make sure you include the ceiling in your measurements, too.
2 Start at the finish
‘The shininess of a paint is referred to as its sheen and is measured by how much light is reflected from its surface,’ explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. ‘Choosing the correct finish will provide both visual and practical benefits.’
Flat matt has no sheen, giving a flawless look, ‘perfect for ceilings and low-traffic areas,’ says Helen, while matt is low-sheen with a powdery finish, so can disguise uneven walls as it soaks up light rather than reflecting it. Eggshell and satin have a little more sheen
