Gloss work is not always a pleasant part of decorating. Lots of people find glossing a nightmare and simply put it off because they cannot face it. Often you may be working with old doors and skirting boards that may have been glossed over a number of times. The woodwork needs to be prepared correctly in order for the gloss to cover correctly and look smooth. If you have any imperfections in the wood, these will show through the gloss.
It is important to remember that sanding down the woodwork is a step that should not be missed. If the wood is relatively smooth anyway then you may only need to give it a light sanding, but if it has a lot of chips and scuffs then you will want to get these out first. One common mistake that lots of people make with gloss is putting a thick coat on. They want to try and get it done in one coat so they make it too thick. This will not only take ages to dry but also often means you are left with drips. You nee to put at least two or three thin coats on.
Satin gloss is easier to work with and although you do not get the high shine, is often seen as more modern.