[argh]

I have two new, unused quarts of eggshell finish paint that I'd like to use in a bathroom. What is the best way to get semi-gloss as the end result?

 

[user1007]

You are not going to get semi-gloss sheen out of eggshell. You could use the two quarts you have as your first finish coat and then buy semi gloss in the same brand and paint line for your final top coat.

 

[ccarlisle]

Yup. You have there two different gloss levels: eggshell and semi-gloss. In between there is satin.

In simple terms, omitting units and testing methods etc, an 'eggshell' has a gloss reading of between 5 and 15 'units' whereas a semi-gloss has a gloss reading of between 30 and 65 'units'...quite a difference!

OK these are technical terms and refer to standard tests the manufacturers use to establish what gloss levels their paints really are between flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss and gloss - but they show the different categories, in order of "glossiness".

Also you can't combine them; two eggshells don't make a semi-gloss.

 

[tchew]

eggshell semigloss

The best way to get semigloss paint from eggshell- take your eggshell paint to Lowes and tell them you need to buy semi gloss in the color.
Sorry, you turn eggshell into semigloss. Do it right and get the right result the first time:jester: