Best Paint Finishes of 2026

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026

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Paint finishes are an important consideration when it comes to decorating a space. There are different types of finishes available, each with its own unique properties. For instance, flat finishes are great for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings, while eggshell finishes have a slight sheen and are more durable, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Satin finishes have a subtle shine and are easy to clean, making them a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Lastly, glossy finishes are highly reflective and provide a polished, modern look to any space. It's important to choose the right paint finish based on the intended use of the room and the desired aesthetic.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint 2 oz Cover #TOP 1
FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint 2 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.9
FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint Clear Wax Cover #TOP 2
FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint Clear Wax
ftb score rating icon 9.8
FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint Cover #TOP 3
FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Paint Finishes

#TOP 1

FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint 2 oz

44383
Violet-Blue-Green
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint 2 oz Cover
FolkArt Multi-Surface Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint (2 oz), 44383, Violet-Blue-Green

The FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Paint is a handy 2-ounce acrylic paint top coat that’s perfect for your DIY projects. Its iridescent finish adds a beautiful shimmering effect that changes colors depending on the light, making your crafts stand out. You’ll love how it applies creamy white but dries clear, allowing the base color to shine through with a glossy, multi-color sheen. Plus, this versatile paint works on many surfaces like wood, metal, canvas, and more, so you can use it indoors or outdoors with ease. It’s a great way to add shine and color depth to your creations.

What We Like
Smooth application
Beautiful iridescent finish
Layers well
Enhances project detail
Fast drying
What We Don't Like
Colors may appear similar
Needs multiple coats for effect
#TOP 2

FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint Clear Wax

34170
Clear Wax
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint Clear Wax Cover
FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint in Assorted Colors, 8 ounce, Clear Wax

FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint's 8 oz clear wax comes in a convenient size and is versatile. It provides a clear, smooth finish that protects DIY home decor projects. The application is easy, and clean up is simple with a paper towel. The brand is trusted by artists, painters, and crafters alike.

What We Like
Easy to use
Beautiful smooth finish
Enhances wood and chalk paint
Economical coverage
Works on various surfaces
What We Don't Like
Minor odor
Not ideal for high-use furniture
#TOP 3

FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint

44382
Red-Violet-Blue
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint Cover
FolkArt Multi-Surface Dragonfly Glaze Multi-Surface Paint (2 oz), 44382, Red-Violet-Blue

FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze is a versatile acrylic paint top coat that adds a brilliant lustrous finish to your DIY crafts. With its handy 2 oz size, it is perfect for all your painting projects. The iridescent, gloss finish of this paint top coat is created by its extraordinary light-reflective pigments. It brushes on creamy white but dries clear, allowing multiple colors to be seen from different angles. This multi-surface formula can be used on various materials such as wood, metal, terra cotta, canvas, and paper. Whether you are working on indoor or outdoor projects, FolkArt Dragonfly Glaze is a great choice. Made in the USA, this non-toxic and water-based paint is a must-have in any artist's collection.

What We Like
Beautiful iridescent color
Smooth, easy application
Layers well for depth
Fast drying time
Versatile for various surfaces
What We Don't Like
Similar colors look alike
More glittery than holographic
#TOP 4

Jolie Gilding Wax Metallic Finish

Jolie
857014008399
Gold
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Jolie Gilding Wax Metallic Finish Cover
Jolie Gilding Wax – Metallic Finish for Furniture, Hardware, and Décor, Gold, 1 Ounce [30ml]

The Jolie Metallic Wax is perfect for adding a beautiful shimmer to your furniture, décor, and home accessories. You can easily highlight details like carvings, moldings, or hardware, making those features stand out with a rich metallic glow. Applying the wax is simple—you just need a small brush, soft cloth, or even your fingertip, giving you full control for precise and easy blending. Plus, you can customize the look by using a light touch for a subtle shine or layering it for a bolder effect. This makes Jolie Metallic Wax a versatile choice for enhancing your creative projects.

What We Like
Quick drying
Easy application
Beautiful gold finish
Great value
Versatile use
What We Don't Like
Small jar size
#TOP 5

AMACO Rub n Buff European Gold 15ml

76379X
European Gold
AMACO Rub n Buff European Gold 15ml Cover
AMACO Rub n Buff Wax Metallic Finish - Rub n Buff European Gold 15ml Tube - Versatile Gilding Wax for Finishing Furniture Antiquing and Restoration - Rub and Buff Colors Single Tube

AMACO Rub n Buff is a versatile gilding wax that allows you to achieve stunning finishes on various surfaces. With just a small amount, you can cover up to 20 square feet, making it perfect for both large and small projects. The application is straightforward; simply use your finger or a soft cloth to buff the wax onto surfaces like wood, metal, and ceramic. You can easily control the shine by adjusting how much you buff it, allowing for both subtle and high-shine effects. Plus, with nine beautiful colors available, you'll find the perfect shade for your creative needs.

What We Like
Easy application process
Impressive antique metallic finish
Transforms decor quickly
Excellent coverage, small amount needed
Works on multiple surfaces
What We Don't Like
Occasionally crumbly texture
Can be expensive for some
#TOP 6

AMACO Rub n Buff Antique Gold Gilding Wax

76303Gx2-1
Antique Gold
AMACO Rub n Buff Antique Gold Gilding Wax Cover
AMACO Rub n Buff Wax Metallic Finish - 2 Rub n Buff Antique Gold 15ml Tubes - Versatile Gilding Wax for Finishing Furniture Antiquing and Restoration - Rub and Buff Colors Set of Two

The AMACO Rub n Buff Wax is a versatile gilding wax that enhances your projects with ease. A small amount of this 15 ml wax can cover up to 20 square feet, making it perfect for both large and small tasks. You can apply it simply with your finger or a soft cloth, allowing for detailed designs or striking metallic finishes. Plus, you can adjust the shine level by how much you buff the wax, letting you achieve everything from subtle accents to brilliant effects. With nine beautiful colors to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect shade for your creative needs.

What We Like
Easy to apply
Long-lasting finish
A little goes far
Works on multiple surfaces
Fast drying time
What We Don't Like
Small tube size
Mild odor
#TOP 7

DecoArt Metallic Lustre Wax Finish, Cosmic Blue

507374
Cosmic Blue
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
DecoArt Metallic Lustre Wax Finish, Cosmic Blue Cover
Deco Art Metallic Lustre Wax Finish, 1 oz, Cosmic Blue

DecoArt Metallic Lustre Wax Finish, Cosmic Blue is a paint finish product made in the United States. The product comes in a package dimension of 1.0 L x 6.0 H x 4.0 W (inches) and weighs 0.27 pounds. This product is perfect for both full coverage and accenting, allowing you to explore your creative side. The wax finish adds a metallic shine to any surface, whether it is wood, metal, ceramic, or paper. Using this product, you can add a unique and eye-catching look to your DIY projects. The small size of the package makes it convenient to carry around and easy to store.

What We Like
Beautiful metallic colors
Easy application
Quick drying
A little goes far
Works on multiple surfaces
What We Don't Like
Some colors not true to label
Occasional dried or hard product
#TOP 8

Howard Chalk-Tique Paste Wax

CTPW01
Light
6 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Howard Chalk-Tique Paste Wax Cover
Howard Products Chalk-Tique Light Paste Wax – Soft Chalk Paint Wax – Perfect Furniture Wax For Your Chalk Paint Home Décor Project , 6 Ounce (Pack of 1)

Howard Paste Wax is a perfect follow-up to any chalk-style paint. It helps protect and prolong the life of all your chalk-style painted surfaces and enhances the chalk-style look of your project for a beautiful antique appearance. The Chalk-Tique Paste Wax protects finish color from sun fade with a UV inhibitor. It can be used on various surfaces such as wood, glass, ceramic, laminate, metal, etc. The Paste Wax helps seal, finish, and protect the newly painted surface. Additionally, the Dark Paste Wax creates a “distressed” looking, aged patina. With Howard Paste Wax, your chalk-style painted surfaces will look better and last longer.

What We Like
Easy to apply
Pleasant scent
Nice satin sheen
Works well with chalk paint
Enhances color and texture
What We Don't Like
Strong smell for some users
Potential irritation for sensitive individuals
#TOP 9

Rub n Buff Antique Gold Wax

rubnbuff
Antique Gold
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Rub n Buff Antique Gold Wax Cover
Rub n Buff Wax Metallic Antique Gold, Rub and Buff Finish, 0.5-Fluid Ounce, Pixiss Blending and Application Tools for Applying Metallic Wax Paint

The Rub n Buff Antique Gold is a wax metallic paste that offers a stunning finish for all your creative projects. Whether you're working on furniture, antiques, or home decor, this product is perfect for adding a touch of elegance. You can easily apply it using your fingers, a cloth, a brush, or the included Pixiss blending tools. After application, simply buff the surface to achieve a beautiful sheen. With 16 color options available, you can choose the perfect shade to match your vision.

What We Like
Easy application process
Rich, professional-looking finish
Wide color selection
Small amount covers large area
Quick drying time
What We Don't Like
Tube size appears small
Possible smudging on first use
#TOP 10

AMACO Rub n Buff Metallic Finish Kit

39672988279
AMACO Rub n Buff Metallic Finish Kit Cover
AMACO Rub n Buff Wax Metallic Finish 3 Color Kit - Antique Gold Grecian Gold and Gold Leaf 15ml Tubes - Versatile Gilding Wax for Finishing Furniture Antiquing and Restoration - 3 Rub and Buff Colors

The AMACO Rub n Buff Kit offers an easy way to enhance your projects with metallic finishes. With just a small amount of the wax, you can cover a large area, making it perfect for both big and small crafts. Applying the wax is a breeze; simply use your finger or a soft cloth to achieve beautiful details on various surfaces. You have control over the shine, allowing you to create either a subtle or a high-gloss finish. Plus, the kit includes three elegant shades, providing plenty of options for your creative endeavors.

What We Like
Easy application
Long-lasting results
Great color selection
Versatile uses
A little goes far
What We Don't Like
Small tube size
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 5 paint finishes?

The five paint finishes are high-gloss, semi-gloss, satin, eggshell, and flat/matte. High-gloss finishes are the most reflective and shiny, while flat/matte finishes have no sheen.

2. Is eggshell or satin better for walls?

Both eggshell and satin finishes are suitable for walls. Eggshell is a flatter finish that can be wiped down, while satin is more durable. It ultimately depends on personal preference and the level of shine desired.

For interior walls, flat, eggshell, and satin finishes are recommended. Flat finishes have no sheen, eggshell has a subtle shine, and satin is more durable.

4. What is the difference between paint finishes?

The difference between paint finishes lies in their light-reflecting properties. Flat/matte paints absorb more light, while semi-gloss and gloss paints reflect light and have a shiny finish.

5. Do designers use flat or eggshell paint?

Designers often use eggshell paint on walls for its durability, ease of cleaning, and ability to cover imperfections.

6. Why use eggshell paint?

Eggshell paint is commonly used in living rooms and dining rooms due to its durability and resistance to dirt. It can also help disguise wall imperfections.

7. Is satin too shiny for living room?

Satin finishes offer a medium gloss sheen, shinier than matte but not as shiny as semi-gloss. It is suitable for smooth walls in high-traffic areas like hallways, family rooms, and kids' rooms.

8. Is flat or satin better for walls?

For high-traffic spaces like mudrooms, satin or eggshell finishes are recommended for interior walls. Flat or matte finishes are best for ceilings, and semi-gloss is suitable for interior trim and doors.

9. What is eggshell paint used for?

Eggshell paint is commonly used in living rooms and dining rooms due to its durability and resistance to dirt. It can also help conceal wall imperfections.

Editor's Notes

During our paint finish research, we found 24 paint finish products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 62,145 customer reviews through our big data system to write the paint finishes list. We found that most customers choose paint finishes with an average price of $18.30.

The paint finishes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paint finishes, including FolkArt, Jolie, AMACO, DecoArt, HOWARD. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.

Paint Finishes Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand FolkArt FolkArt FolkArt Jolie AMACO AMACO DecoArt HOWARD GRAS Art Bundles AMACO
Specific Uses For Product Interior Interior Interior Floors,Furniture,Cabinets,Farmhouse - - Interior Protect and prolong the life of all your chalk-style painted surfaces Interior/Exterior -
Color Violet-Blue-Green Clear Wax Red-Violet-Blue Gold - - Cosmic Blue - Antique Gold -
Finish Type Gloss Matte Iridescent, Shimmering Metallic - - Metallic - Gloss -
Size 2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 1 Ounce (Pack of 1) - - 1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) - 1 Ounce (Pack of 1) -
Item Volume 2 Fluid Ounces 8 Fluid Ounces 2 Fluid Ounces 1 Fluid Ounces - - 1 Fluid Ounces - 15 Milliliters -
Special Feature Non Toxic Non Toxic Non Toxic Glow - - Glow - Fast-Drying -
Unit Count 2.0 Fluid Ounces 8.0 Fluid Ounces 2.0 Fluid Ounces 1.0 Ounce - - 1.0 Fluid Ounces - 1.0 Ounce -
Surface Recommendation Indoor Wood Indoor Wood, Stone, Plastic, Metal - - Walls - Plastic -
Item Weight - 8.8 ounces - 3.52 ounces 0.176 ounces 1.44 ounces - 170 Grams - 2.39 ounces
Paint Type Acrylic - Acrylic Decorative - - Metallic - Enamel -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
Where to Buy