It depends on what you're painting, where it is and how much wear it will get. Walls and ceilings will usually need a different finish than woodwork, furniture or exterior surfaces. Start with the surface, then choose a paint and finish designed for the job.

A paint finish describes how the paint looks and performs once dry. Finishes range from very matt with little or no shine through to high gloss, and different finishes are suited to different surfaces and levels of everyday wear.

As a general guide, matt has little to no shine, eggshell has a subtle sheen, satin has a more noticeable sheen and gloss is highly reflective. Exact sheen levels vary between brands, so always check the individual product.

A matt or emulsion finish is a common choice for interior walls and ceilings. For busy areas, you may want a more durable, washable finish. Always check that your chosen paint is suitable for the room and surface.

Eggshell, satin and gloss are commonly used on interior woodwork. The right choice depends on the look you want, from a subtle low sheen to a more polished high-gloss finish, and the product's recommended uses.

Look for a paint specifically recommended for hardworking or moisture-prone rooms. Washability and durability are particularly important in kitchens and bathrooms, so check the individual product guidance before choosing your finish.

Not always. Bare or new surfaces, difficult surfaces and areas in poor condition may need a suitable primer. Colourtrend Platinum offers primers for different surfaces— ask our team which is right for your project. Always follow your chosen paint’s preparation instructions.

It depends on the existing surface and its condition. Loose or uneven areas may need sanding, and some previously painted surfaces may benefit from light abrasion before repainting. Always follow the preparation instructions for the paint and surface you're working with. Surface preparation is important for adhesion and the finished result.

Start with a clean, dry and sound surface. Deal with dirt, loose or flaking material and imperfections before painting, and fill or sand where required. Then check whether your surface and chosen paint require a primer

The number of coats depends on the paint you’re using, the surface underneath and the colour change you’re making. Always follow your chosen product’s application guidance.

To estimate how much paint you’ll need, select your colour and finish on the product page, then use our paint calculator.

This depends on the size of the area you're painting and the coverage of your chosen paint. Measure your space and use the paint calculator on the Cove & Co. product page to help work out how much you'll need.

Colour can look different depending on the light in your room and the colours and materials around it. That's why it's worth testing your chosen colour in your own space before making your final decision.

Yes, we'd recommend it. Testing allows you to see the colour in your own room, as the light changes and alongside your flooring, furniture and other finishes before committing to the full quantity.

Drying and recoat times vary between paints, so always check the instructions for the specific product you're using. Conditions in the room can also affect the painting process, so follow the manufacturer's guidance rather than relying on one standard time.

Often, you'll use both. A brush is useful for edges, corners and detailed areas, while a roller is efficient for larger surfaces such as walls and ceilings. The best brush or roller will also depend on the paint and surface you're working with. Shop brushes and rollers