A Guide To The Sanderson Paint Range

September 30th, 2026

Whether you're after a soft, understated matt or a classic, mid-sheen eggshell, every colour in the Sanderson range is built for lasting durability and exceptional depth, so your walls stay looking as rich and vibrant as the day they were painted.

Kitchen wall painted in Ming Gold.

About The Sanderson Range

In 1900, Arthur Sanderson introduced a small collection of paints to complement his wallpaper and fabric collections. Now, more than a century later, Sanderson have 154 colours in a selection of finishes that can be used throughout your home.

Seamlessly blending enduring heritage with modern, family living, Sanderson's easy-to-use palette enhances its luxury wallcoverings and textiles.

All Sanderson paints are made in the UK and are low in VOCs, making them a more considered choice for both your home and the environment. Each finish delivers exceptional coverage and outstanding depth of colour.

Sanderson Paint Finishes

Choosing the right finish is simple once you’ve decided what surfaces you’ll be painting, especially as all 154 colours are available in all finishes.

Sanderson Active Emulsion

Active Emulsion is a highly durable, low-sheen paint designed for walls and wood panelling of busy, family households. It's ideal for corridors, kitchens, bathrooms and playrooms.

Benefits of Active Emulsion

Excellent opacity — hides imperfections in the wall beneath, giving a smooth, professional-looking finish.
Brilliant colour retention — keeps its depth and richness over time, so walls don't fade or dull with age.
Matt finish — a timeless, understated look that suits both contemporary and classic interiors.
Quick drying in 1–4 hours — ideal for projects that need a fast turnaround.
Water-based — low odour and easy to clean up during application.
Sheen of less than 5% — a true matt for a soft, refined look.
Suitable for high-traffic areas — hallways, kitchens, bathrooms and playrooms all benefit from its durability.
Can also be used on wood panelling — extending its use beyond walls alone.

Walls painted in Canopy Green.

Sanderson Water-Based Eggshell

For a slightly more classic, subdued sheen with the same reliable performance, Sanderson Water-Based Eggshell is a hard-wearing choice suitable for walls, ceilings and woodwork.

Sanderson Water-Based Eggshell is best for kitchens, hallways, bathrooms and conservatories.

Benefits of Water-Based Eggshell

Soft mid-to-low sheen — a 10–25% finish for a classic, subdued look.

Wipeable and washable — practical for spaces that need regular cleaning.

Quick drying — helps keep projects moving efficiently.

High pigment — rich, lasting colour with real depth and clarity.

Bathroom painted in Birch White and Chateau Grey.

FAQs

How many colours does the Sanderson paint range come in?

The Sanderson range is available in 154 colours across two finishes: Active Emulsion and Water-Based Eggshell.

What's the difference between Sanderson Active Emulsion and Water-Based Eggshell?

Active Emulsion is a true matt finish with a sheen of less than 5%, giving a timeless, understated look. Water-Based Eggshell has a soft, mid-to-low sheen of 10–25%, giving a more classic, subdued finish. Both are durable and suitable for high-traffic areas.

Is Sanderson Active Emulsion suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?

Yes. Active Emulsion is suitable for high-traffic areas including hallways, kitchens, bathrooms and playrooms, and can also be used on wood panelling.

How long does Sanderson paint take to dry?

Sanderson Active Emulsion dries in 1–4 hours, making it well suited to projects with a quick turnaround. Sanderson Water-Based Eggshell is also quick-drying.

Is Sanderson Water-Based Eggshell washable?

Yes. It's wipeable and washable, making it a practical choice for kitchens, hallways, bathrooms and conservatories.

Can Sanderson Water-Based Eggshell be used on ceilings and woodwork?

Yes. It's suitable for walls, ceilings and woodwork, giving a consistent finish across different surfaces.

Discover Sanderson At Brewers

With over 150 colours to choose from and two finishes built for real durability, the Sanderson range makes it easy to find a shade and sheen that suits your space, without compromising on lasting performance.

Shop the full Sanderson range online or visit your local Brewers Decorator Centre, where our team can help you find the right colour and finish for your project.