There are various types of paints available, each with its unique properties, colours  and suitable applications. Here are some common types of paint, along with a brief explanation for each, and natural paint alternatives if available. 

**UPDATED 26th Dec 2023

What are the different types of paint

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What are the different types of paint?

Enamel paint

Enamel paint is a durable, hard-wearing paint with a glossy finish, typically used on surfaces like metal, wood, and glass. It’s resistant to moisture and wear, making it ideal for surfaces that require frequent cleaning or are exposed to harsh conditions. Not natural, and there isn’t really a natural enamel paint at this stage.  

Alkyd paint

Alkyd paint is an oil-based paint that uses alkyd resin as the primary binder. It’s known for its durability and ease of application, making it suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces, such as doors, trims, and furniture. Natural version of this would probably be on of the natural wood or multi surface paints

Acrylic paint

Acrylic paint is a water-based paint made with acrylic resin. It’s fast-drying, easy to clean up, and versatile, making it suitable for various applications, including interior and exterior walls, ceilings, and artistic projects. Any of the natural interior wall emulsion paints work in the same way, and natural!

Oil paint

Oil paint is a traditional paint type made with oil as the primary binder. It’s slow-drying and offers a rich, lustrous finish, making it popular for fine art and certain interior surfaces, such as woodwork and furniture. The oil based natural paints are being phased out as people move over to natural modern water based wood paints. 

Latex paint

Latex paint is a water-based paint that uses synthetic polymers, such as acrylic or vinyl, as binders. It’s known for its quick drying time, low odour, and easy clean-up, making it a popular choice for interior and exterior walls. Just normal natural emulsion paints are the replacement for latex.

Emulsion paint

Emulsion paint is a water-based paint that uses various binders, such as acrylic or vinyl, and is designed for interior walls and ceilings. It’s known for its ease of application, quick drying time, and resistance to moisture and stains. Natural emulsion paint can be found here. 

Matt silk

Matt silk paint provides a smooth, silky finish with a slight sheen. It’s a water-based paint that’s easy to apply and is ideal for interior surfaces, such as walls and ceilings. The best natural matt silk emulsion paints can be found here. 

Satin paint

Satin paint offers a soft, velvety finish with a subtle sheen, making it a popular choice for interior walls, ceilings, and woodwork. It’s more durable than matt paint and is easier to clean, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. Satin wood paints can be found here. Natural satin Eggshell is pretty similar, and can be found here. 

Gloss paint

Gloss paint provides a high-shine, reflective finish that’s durable and easy to clean. It’s typically used on surfaces like doors, window frames, and trim, adding a polished appearance to both interior and exterior spaces. Natural Gloss wood paint is found here

Eggshell paint

Eggshell paint has a low sheen, similar to the surface of an eggshell. It’s more durable than matt paint but less glossy than satin, making it suitable for interior walls, ceilings, and woodwork. Natural wall emulsion eggshell is here

Distemper paint

Distemper paint is a traditional, water-based paint made with natural ingredients, such as chalk, lime, or casein. It’s known for its soft, chalky appearance and is often used on interior walls and ceilings in historic buildings.

Exterior paint

Exterior paint is specifically formulated to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, including UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and moisture. It’s typically more durable and weather-resistant than interior paint, making it suitable for surfaces like exterior walls, doors, and window frames.

Interior paint

Interior paint is designed for use on indoor surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, and woodwork. It’s formulated to provide a smooth, attractive finish while being resistant to stains and easy to clean.

Wall paint

Wall paint is typically a water-based emulsion paint designed for use on interior or exterior walls. It’s available in various finishes, such as matt, silk and satin.

Soft Sheen paint

Soft sheen paint has a subtle sheen, falling between matt and silk finishes. It is more durable than matt paint and easier to clean, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as hallways and living rooms. It’s often used on interior walls and ceilings.

Silk paint

Silk paint provides a smooth, silky finish with a slight sheen. It’s a water-based paint that’s easy to apply and is ideal for interior surfaces, such as walls and ceilings. Silk paint is more durable and washable than matt paint, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and rooms with higher moisture levels, like kitchens and bathrooms.

Flat or Matt paint 

Flat or matt paint provides a non-reflective finish that is ideal for hiding surface imperfections. It’s most commonly used on interior walls and ceilings, offering a uniform and subtle appearance. 

Limewash paint

Limewash paint is a traditional, breathable paint made from slaked lime and water. It’s known for its distinctive, chalky appearance and is often used on exterior walls of historic buildings, providing a permeable finish that allows moisture to evaporate from the substrate. Limewash paint can be found here. 

Chalk paint

Chalk paint is a decorative paint known for its matte, chalky finish. It adheres well to various surfaces without the need for priming or sanding, making it popular for upcycling furniture and other DIY projects. Natural Chalk paint can be found here. 

Masonry paint

Masonry paint is a durable, weather-resistant paint designed for use on exterior masonry surfaces like brick, concrete, and stucco. It’s formulated to provide excellent adhesion, resist moisture penetration, and protect against UV damage and weathering. Natural masonry paint can be found here. 

Floor paint

Floor paint is a specially formulated paint designed for use on floors, offering increased durability, abrasion resistance, and protection against spills, stains, and foot traffic. It’s available in various finishes, including gloss, satin, and matt, and can be used on surfaces like wood, concrete, and tiles. Natural floor paints and finishes can be found here

Primer paint

Primer is not a finish paint, but it’s an essential preparatory coating applied before the final paint. It helps to ensure proper adhesion, provide a uniform base for the topcoat, and can enhance the durability and appearance of the final paint job. Natural Primer Paints can be found here. More: What is a primer and what is it for?

Undercoat paint

Like primer, undercoat is a preparatory coating applied before the final paint. It’s used to provide a smooth, even base for the topcoat, especially when changing the surface colour dramatically or when using a paint with poor hiding properties. Natural Primer Paints can be found here. 

Anti-condensation paint 

Anti-condensation paint is specifically formulated to help prevent condensation and mould growth on interior walls and ceilings. It typically contains insulating properties or moisture-absorbing materials that help regulate surface temperature and moisture levels. These situations can be avoided by just using a breathable natural paint to start with!

Each of these paint types has its unique properties and applications, so it’s crucial to choose the right paint for your specific project to achieve the best results.

Types of paint compared vs other paints

We also have a paint brands compared page here.

Latex vs Emulsion paint:

Latex paint is a water-based paint that uses synthetic polymers like acrylic or vinyl as binders. Emulsion paint, also water-based, uses various binders such as acrylic, vinyl, or even natural binders like casein. Both paints are easy to apply, have quick drying times, and are suitable for interior walls and ceilings. However, latex paint tends to be more durable and resistant to yellowing over time.

Emulsion vs Acrylic paint:

Emulsion paint is a water-based paint that can use various binders, including acrylic. Acrylic paint is a specific type of water-based paint that uses acrylic resin as the primary binder. Both are versatile and suitable for a range of applications, but acrylic paint tends to be more durable and resistant to moisture, making it a popular choice for both interior and exterior surfaces.

Oil vs Water-based paint:

Oil-based paints use oil as the primary binder, while water-based paints use water as the main solvent. Oil-based paints offer a smooth, lustrous finish and are more durable but have longer drying times and emit stronger odours. Water-based paints are easier to clean up, dry faster, and emit fewer odours, making them more environmentally friendly and user-friendly.

Interior vs Exterior paint:

Interior paint is designed for use on indoor surfaces, offering a smooth finish and resistance to stains. Exterior paint is formulated to withstand harsh outdoor conditions like UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and moisture, providing durability and weather resistance for surfaces like exterior walls, doors, and window frames.

Wood vs Metal paint:

Wood paint is specifically formulated for use on wooden surfaces, offering protection from moisture, UV damage, and wear. Metal paint is designed for metal surfaces, providing a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that protects against rust and other damage. Each type of paint is formulated to adhere well to its respective surface, ensuring optimal performance. Natural wood paint can be found here. 

Matt vs Silk paint

Matt paint provides a flat, non-reflective finish that is ideal for hiding surface imperfections. Silk paint offers a smooth, silky finish with a slight sheen, giving a more luxurious appearance. While matt paint is ideal for concealing imperfections, silk paint is better for high-traffic areas due to its increased durability and washability. Read more: Matt vs Silk Paints

Eggshell vs Matt paint

Eggshell paint has a low sheen, making it more durable than matt paint but less glossy than satin. Matt paint provides a completely flat, non-reflective finish. While both finishes can be used on interior walls, ceilings, and woodwork, eggshell paint is more resistant to scuffs and stains, making it a better choice for high-traffic areas.

Eggshell vs Gloss paint

Eggshell paint has a subtle sheen, while gloss paint provides a high-shine, reflective finish. Gloss paint is more durable and easier to clean, making it ideal for surfaces like doors, window frames, and trim, while eggshell paint is more suitable for walls and ceilings where a softer appearance is desired.

Latex vs Acrylic paint:

Latex paint is a water-based paint that uses synthetic polymers like acrylic or vinyl as binders, while acrylic paint specifically uses acrylic resin as the primary binder. Both paints are easy to apply and clean up, with acrylic paint offering slightly higher durability and moisture resistance.

Enamel vs Oil paint:

Enamel paint is a hard-wearing paint with a glossy finish, typically used on surfaces like metal, wood, and glass. Oil paint is a traditional paint type made with oil as the primary binder, offering a smooth, lustrous finish. While both paints are durable, enamel paint tends to be more moisture-resistant and suitable for surfaces requiring frequent cleaning or exposure to harsh conditions

Matt Emulsion vs Eggshell paint:

Matt emulsion paint provides a completely flat, non-reflective finish, while eggshell paint has a low sheen that is more durable than matt but less glossy than satin. Matt emulsion is ideal for covering surface imperfections and creating a uniform appearance on walls and ceilings. Eggshell paint, on the other hand, offers increased durability and is easier to clean, making it a better choice for high-traffic areas and surfaces that may require occasional wiping or washing.

Matte Paint vs. Gloss Paint

Modern high street Matte paints can contain synthetic binders and additives, while gloss paints often have higher levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Natural matte finishes can be achieved with mineral, clay or chalk paints, and low-VOC, water-based gloss paints are more eco-friendly options. 

Enamel Paint vs. Acrylic Paint

Enamel paints are usually oil-based and contain synthetic chemicals. Water-based enamel paints with lower VOCs are an alternative. Acrylic paint is also synthetic, with natural alternatives being made from mineral or plant based ingredients. 

Chalk Paint vs. Milk Paint

Chalk paint is water-based but can contain acrylic polymers. Milk paint is a natural alternative, made from milk protein, lime, and natural pigments. It’s eco-friendly and non-toxic.

Latex Paint vs. Acrylic Paint

Both types contain synthetic materials, but latex paint generally has fewer VOCs than acrylic. Natural alternatives include mineral and chalk paints, which are free from synthetic chemicals and plastics.

High-Gloss Paint vs. Semi-Gloss Paint

Both finishes can contain high levels of VOCs and synthetic resins. Natural alternatives are limited for high-gloss finishes, but low-VOC, water-based semi-gloss paints are a more eco-friendly choice.

Alkyd Paint vs. Latex Paint

Alkyd paint is oil-based and contains synthetic resins. Natural linseed oil paint is an alternative. Latex paint, while water-based also contains syntheticss

Eggshell Paint vs. Satin Paint

Both are typically made with synthetic binders and may contain VOCs when bought off the shelf from high street stores. Natural mineral, clay or chalk-based paints can offer similar finishes with lower toxicity. 

Distemper Paint vs. Emulsion Paint

Traditional distemper paint is more natural, made with chalk, lime, and pigment, but less durable. Modern Emulsion paints contain synthetic resins, with mineral, clay or chalk-based paints as natural alternatives.

Flat Paint vs. Eggshell Paint

Flat paints often contain synthetic ingredients and can have high VOCs. Eggshell paints also contain synthetics but usually have lower VOC levels. Natural lime or clay-based paints are good alternatives for both.

Varnish vs. Polyurethane

Traditional varnishes can be natural, made from tree resins, but modern versions often contain synthetics. Polyurethane is synthetic. Natural oil finishes like linseed or tung oil are alternatives.

Shellac vs. Lacquer

Shellac is natural, made from beetle resin, and Lacquer is synthetic, with high VOCs. Natural wax finishes can be an alternative.

Primer vs. Undercoat

Primers are designed to be a solid foundation for your paints to adhere to, whereas undercoats are more to do with creating a nice flat surface for your paint. Most primers and undercoats are synthetic, but our natural alternatives include mineral-based primers. These are less toxic and environmentally friendly.

Stain vs. Paint

Many stains are synthetic, but natural wood stains made from plant tannins or oils are available. Natural paints include mineral, milk, clay, and chalk-based options, which are non-toxic and eco-friendly.

Watercolour vs. Acrylic Paint

Traditional watercolours can be natural, made from gum arabic and pigments. Acrylic paints are synthetic. Natural alternatives to acrylics include casein and other milk-based paints.

Oil Paint vs. Alkyd Paint

Traditional oil paints can be natural, made with linseed oil and pigments. Alkyd paints are synthetic. Pure linseed oil paints are a natural alternative.

Ceiling Paint vs. Wall Paint 

Both types usually contain synthetic ingredients. Natural wall and ceiling paints can be made from mineral, clay, lime, or milk-based formulas.

Epoxy Paint vs. Enamel Paint

Epoxy paints are highly synthetic and contain chemicals. Enamel paints also contain synthetics. Natural oil-based paints are the closest alternatives.

Textured Paint vs. Smooth Paint 

Many textured paints contain plastics and chemicals for texture. Smooth paints also contain synthetics. Natural lime or clay-based paints offer texture and smooth finishes without harmful chemicals.

Metallic Paint vs. Pearl Paint

Both are usually synthetic, containing metal particles or synthetic pearlescent materials. Natural alternatives with mica or other natural minerals can offer a shimmering effect (to a certain extent!)

Latex Paint vs. Oil-Based Paint for Trim

Latex paints contain synthetic polymers, and oil-based paints are high in VOCs. Natural oil-based paints or low-VOC latex paints are more eco-friendly options.

Chalk Paint vs. Clay Paint

Chalk paint is known for its matte, chalky finish and adherence without priming. It can contain acrylic polymers. We do offer totally natural chalk paint.  Clay paint, a natural alternative, is made from earth clays and provides a breathable, eco-friendly finish.

Clay Paint vs. Lime Paint

Clay paint, made from natural clays and minerals, offers a breathable, non-toxic finish ideal for interior walls. Lime paint, also natural, is made from lime putty and provides a unique, matte finish that’s antimicrobial and suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces.

Lime Paint vs. Lime Wash Paint:

Lime paint is thicker, offering more coverage and a distinct matte finish. Lime wash is more translucent, creating a weathered, traditional look. Both are natural, highly breathable, and suitable for historic restoration.

Anti-Mould Paint vs. Acrylic Paint

Anti-mould paints are often acrylic-based but include additives that resist mould growth, ideal for damp environments. Regular acrylic paints don’t have these properties. Natural alternatives like lime-based paints also offer mould resistance due to their high pH.

Air Purifying Paints vs. Traditional Paints

Air purifying paints are designed to reduce indoor air pollutants and VOCs, offering a healthier indoor environment. Traditional paints, especially oil-based, can emit high levels of VOCs. Natural paints like clay or milk-based paints are inherently low in VOCs and can contribute to better air quality.

Vegan Paints vs. Casein (Milk) Paints

Vegan paints are free from animal-derived ingredients, suitable for eco-conscious consumers. Casein paints, made from milk protein, are not vegan but offer a natural, eco-friendly alternative. Both types are biodegradable and low in VOCs.

Breathable Paints (Clay, Lime) vs. Latex Paints

Breathable paints like clay and lime allow moisture to pass through, preventing mould growth and improving indoor air quality. Latex paints, while water-based, are less breathable due to synthetic polymers. Natural breathable paints are ideal for older buildings and eco-friendly projects.

Lime Paint vs. Distemper Paint 

Lime paint, made from natural lime putty, offers a breathable, antimicrobial finish with a unique matte look. Distemper paint, traditionally made with chalk, lime, and pigment, is also breathable but less durable and washable compared to lime paint.

Eco-Friendly Recycled Paints vs. Conventional Paints 

Recycled paints are made from leftover, reprocessed paint, reducing waste. They offer a sustainable alternative to conventional paints, which often contain new synthetic materials and chemicals. Recycled paints vary in finish and quality but are generally more environmentally friendly.

Low-VOC Paints vs. High-VOC Oil-Based Paints

Low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints emit fewer harmful chemicals, making them safer for indoor use and the environment. High-VOC paints, typically oil-based, can release significant pollutants. Low-VOC options include water-based acrylics and natural paints.

Mineral Paint vs. Acrylic Paint

Mineral paint, made with natural minerals and water-based binders, is highly breathable and durable, ideal for interior and exterior surfaces. Acrylic paint, synthetic in nature, offers flexibility and colour richness but is less breathable. Mineral paint is more eco-friendly and suitable for historic buildings.

Non-Toxic Paints vs. Traditional Synthetic Paints

Non-toxic paints can be free from harmful chemicals like VOCs, heavy metals, and toxic preservatives, making them safer for indoor environments. Traditional synthetic paints often contain these elements. Non-toxic options include natural clay, lime, and milk-based paints.

Silicate Paint vs. Latex Paint

Silicate paint, made from natural mineral silicates, bonds permanently with masonry surfaces, offering durability and breathability. It’s ideal for historic buildings. Latex paint, while versatile and easy to apply, is synthetic and doesn’t offer the same mineral-based benefits.

Wheat-based Paint vs. Traditional Oil Paint

Wheat-based paint, a newer eco-friendly option, is made from natural wheat protein, offering a durable and non-toxic alternative. Traditional oil paint, made from linseed oil and pigments, can contain VOCs and synthetic additives.

Hemp Oil Paint vs. Alkyd Paint

Hemp oil paint, made from natural hemp seed oil, is eco-friendly and offers a durable finish for wood. Alkyd paint, typically made from synthetic resins and solvents, is less environmentally friendly but provides a hard, glossy finish.

Soy Paint vs. Enamel Paint

Soy paint, derived from soybean oil, is a sustainable and biodegradable option, suitable for various surfaces. Enamel paint, often oil-based, contains synthetic chemicals and offers a hard, glossy finish.

Milk Paint vs. Chalk Paint for Furniture

Milk paint, made from milk protein, lime, and natural pigments, offers an eco-friendly, matte finish for furniture. It’s biodegradable and non-toxic. Chalk paint, while popular for furniture due to its matte look and easy application, often contains synthetic components.

Natural Oil Stain vs. Synthetic Stain

Natural oil stains, made from plant-based oils and natural pigments, penetrate wood to enhance its natural beauty. They are eco-friendly and non-toxic. Synthetic stains are durable and come in a wide range of colours but contain chemicals and VOCs.

Zero-VOC Paints vs. Low-VOC Paints 

Zero-VOC paints have minimal volatile organic compound emissions, making them the safest choice for indoor air quality. Low-VOC paints are also a healthier option compared to traditional paints, but they still emit some VOCs. Be aware that even zero VOC paints emit trace VOCs as does everything in reality!

Plant-based Paints vs. Traditional Water-Based Paints

Plant-based paints are made from natural ingredients like plant oils and resins, offering a sustainable and non-toxic alternative. Traditional water-based paints, while less toxic than oil-based paints, still contain synthetic polymers and additives.

In conclusion, when choosing a paint type or finish, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of your project, such as the surface material, desired appearance, and the level of durability needed. By understanding the differences between various paint types and finishes, you can make an informed decision and select the most suitable product for your needs.

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