Should you use a roller or brush for satin paint?

Author: Easton Reilly  |  Last update: Thursday, January 1, 2026

To apply flat, eggshell, or satin paints and stains, a knit roller cover is recommended.

Can I use a roller with satin paint?

As mentioned above a short-pile 'flock' type roller is the best for applying oil-based paints (if the satinwood is water-based or 'quick-dry' it will still be fine). You should then 'lay-off' the paint to achieve a flat finish without the stipple texture from the roller.

What roller or brush for satin paint?

As mentioned above a short-pile 'flock' type roller is the best for applying oil-based paints (if the satinwood is water-based or 'quick-dry' it will still be fine). You should then 'lay-off' the paint to achieve a flat finish without the stipple texture from the roller.

What type of brush to use for satin paint?

The round brush head gives you more control in those challenging and intricate areas. For use with all gloss, eggshell and satin paints.

Should I paint with a roller or brush?

The type of surface:

Paint rollers can sometimes be best for smoother surfaces, while paintbrushes can work well on both smooth and textured surfaces.

Choosing the Right Paint Roller | Benjamin Moore

Does satin paint show brush marks?

Cut Lines: Satin paint is also easier to fix than flat paint because the glossier finish helps to hide brush strokes and other flaws.

Do professional painters use brush or roller?

Professional painters typically use both brushes and rollers when painting. Brushes are used to apply paint in tight spaces or areas with intricate details, while rollers are used for larger surfaces like walls and ceilings.

Does satin paint need two coats?

After applying satin paint, additional coats may be necessary to achieve a smoother finish. To ensure that the surface is even and free of imperfections, it's important to add extra layers of paint if needed. This will help create an even and consistent look throughout the entire space.

What paint roller gives the smoothest finish?

Walls, Wood, and Metal - Small 1/4″ roller covers or foam rollers will produce the smoothest finish. Light to Medium Textured Surfaces - Microfiber rollers are best.

How do you prevent roller marks on satin paint?

How to Put Down a Smoother Coat
  1. Latex paints use synthetic fiber covers.
  2. Alkyd/oil paints use lambs' wool, mohair or other natural fiber covers.
  3. For smooth surfaces, flats and satins use 3/8" covers, while semi-gloss and gloss use 1/4" covers.
  4. For textured surfaces (depending on the texture), use 1/2", 3/4" or longer.

Why not to use satin paint?

Despite its many benefits, one downside is that its glossiness can highlight wall imperfections such as cracks and poorly patched areas. Therefore, it's important to prepare your walls adequately before applying satin paint color to achieve a smooth, professional finish.

What is the best application for satin paint?

There are many reasons to choose satin paint. Because it's durable and hardwearing, it's the perfect paint for busy areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, children's rooms, playrooms and nurseries. It's also great for interior woodwork such as architectural trims, frames and moldings.

How to make satin paint look smooth?

Using De-glossers or Glazing Compounds. Another option for how to make satin paint flat involves using products specifically designed for altering finishes such as de-glossers or glazing compounds. These solutions provide an easy alternative without compromising color vibrancy too much.

What is the best roller to use for satin paint?

To apply flat, eggshell, or satin paints and stains, a knit roller cover is recommended. Knit roller covers can pick up and release higher amounts of paint than woven fabrics because the fibers have a looped backing with a single pass-through process resulting in a more “open” fabric.

Why does my satin paint look patchy?

Patchiness usually happens if you don't use enough paint, or apply it unevenly. Using a touch more paint, and painting in small sections one at a time, usually does the trick. Also, rolling in a grid fashion will get you an even finish too. But, sometimes, changes in the gloss level leave things patchy.

How do you apply satin paint?

On larger areas apply satin paint with a roller or a 3-4 inch brush. Use the brush or roller to smooth overlap areas to prevent thick paint build-up before the paint dries. As with all paints, allow one coat to dry before applying another.

How long should satin paint dry between coats?

While it's typical to recoat within 4-12 hours, some projects allow weeks or even months between coats without any problems.

Can you paint over satin paint without sanding?

Painting over existing satin paint with a flat finish can be done, but it requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Before beginning the painting process, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned and sanded to ensure that the new finish will adhere properly.

Does paint go further with a brush or roller?

Paint rollers are designed to efficiently paint large flat surfaces, such as walls and ceilings. A paint roller can hold more paint than a paint brush and will distribute an even layer of paint quicker. Similarly to paint brushes, paint rollers also differ in sizes, styles and material.

What nap roller for satin paint?

For flat, eggshell, and satin finishes, knit roller covers do the job more efficiently. For consistent control and smooth finish, we recommend microfiber roller covers. 1/4″ – Use for ultra-smooth surfaces like cabinets, doors & metal. 3/8″ – Use for smooth surfaces like walls & ceilings.

How do you not see brush strokes when painting?

Use a liner brush and clean up the edges of your stroke. Also, you can use a dry brush or another type of brush with a smaller tip to blend in your strokes.

What is the best brush for satin paint?

Soft Nylon & Polyester—Use this type of bristle for all paints, especially semi-gloss and satin finishes. They provide extra flex for smooth application, leave few brush marks, and have an excellent paint capacity.

Why is my satin paint so streaky?

Several factors can lead to a streaky paint job. First, roller marks are a common culprit. These can occur when the paint roller isn't fully immersed in the paint or is applied unevenly, leaving a patchy, streaky appearance once the paint has dried. Second, brush marks are another common cause of streaks.

How do you clean brushes after using satin paint?

If you've been using water-based paint, pop on some rubber gloves to prevent staining your hands and wash the brush in warm, soapy water. Give it a rinse and repeat the process until the water runs clear. Solvent-based paint requires the use of a white spirit or solvent-based brush cleaners.

Previous article
What happens if you leave soap on for too long?
Next article
Can you replace AC compressor without evacuating system?