A trip to your local hardware store to select paint can often become overwhelming. There are lots of different types of paint out there and knowing which type of paint to choose for a project can get confusing. Use this guide to learn about the different types of paint and which would be the best paint for furniture, wood, plastic, metal and laminate surfaces.
I really thought that all the information to know about painting furniture was out there in internet land for everyone to see and no one needed to hear anymore from me besides the occasional furniture makeover, on the subject. However, I get questions all the time asking what kind of paint for certain kinds of furniture, when to sand / when not to sand pieces, when to prime / when not to prime, and so on. Apparently, people still have questions on this topic and I’m cool with that. It gives me something to write about that I love writing about. So to answer one of those questions, this post is all about what kind of paint to use on what surface.
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Best Paint for Wood
Generally, you can use just about any kind of paint on wood surfaces, whether it’s wood furniture, wood trim or other wood surfaces.
Navy End Table painted with Velvet Finishes / Coral End Table painted with Latex Paint
Oil-Based Paint
Oil-based paint is great for furniture makeovers in terms of durability over time. However, it’s not as easy to deal with as latex and other specialty furniture paints are. With an oil-based paint, you absolutely must make sure you use a high-quality paint brush that will work with oil-based paint. Generally, it just works better to brush oil-based paint on, rather than rolling it. Oil-based paint is also known to have fewer brush strokes as well. Clean-up for oil-based paint is not a picnic. You have to use mineral spirits or paint thinner to clean your brushes and any paint off you as well. Most oil-based paints won’t require an additional topcoat though.
One really important thing to note with oil-based paint is that it should not be painted directly over latex paints. If you really want to use oil-based paint over latex, then first sand it, prime it with a water-based primer and then use your oil-based paint.
Latex Paint
Your basic latex paint that you can find at local home improvement stores is also fine to paint wood surfaces with. Generally, it is much easier to work with than oil-based paints, however the durability over time isn’t as great, but it’s not bad by any means. If you paint something with a semi-gloss or gloss sheen, then you may not need an additional polycrylic topcoat depending on much use your surface will get. If you paint something with a latex paint that has a flat, eggshell or satin sheen, I would definitely finish up with a polycrylic topcoat for added protection. If you’re looking for low sheen, go with the satin polycrylic. Latex paint can be cleaned up with soap and water. One thing to note with latex paint is that brush strokes are more likely. To minimize these as much as possible always use a good, high quality paintbrush and mix in a little Floetrol – it’s like magic in a bottle for eliminating brush strokes.
Best Paint for Wood Furniture: Speciality Paints
Specialty Paints
Since furniture painting has become such a big deal, there have been a number of specialty paints created specifically for painting furniture. Many of these make furniture painting easier in some way or another that oil-based and latex paints don’t always offer.
Velvet Finishes Paint
It’s no secret around here that I often use Velvet Finishes for my furniture projects.
Velvet Finishes has a built-in topcoat and usually does not require sanding or priming unless the piece has a shiny or glossy finish on it before painting. If your piece is glossy, you can use their Ready product on it before painting, which is a spray primer that you just spray on, let it sit, then wipe off.
Chalk Paint
Many people love chalk paint. I’m not one of those people. I don’t detest it, but it’s just not my cup of tea. Most chalk paints don’t require you to prime or sand your piece before painting, which is great. Most chalk paints do require you to give it some sort of topcoat though. Many people use wax to seal it.
Milk Paint
I’ve never personally used milk paint, so I certainly can’t speak to how well it works myself, but I have heard good things about it from others. I think most people go with milk paint when they are looking to achieve a farmhouse effect on their furniture.
Types of Paint for Laminate Surfaces
Painting laminate furniture and surfaces is a whole other beast. It can be done, but not super easily. To paint laminate furniture, I think you should always prime the piece first. I’ve used Zinnser Primers for this and have had good results.
I have painted laminate pieces before without priming them first and it didn’t turn out so hot.
Latex Paints
After priming your piece, you can follow up with at least two coats of latex paint. Just like I noted above, use a good brush and Floetrol to prevent brush strokes.
My personal pick for latex paint that you can buy at your local home improvement store is Behr paint. I’ve always gotten good results with it and while it is a little more expensive than other brands, I think it’s well worth it.
Oil Based Paints
You can also use oil-based paints over laminate if you first prime it. Using an Oil Based paint would provide more durability over the long run.
Velvet Finishes
I have used Velvet Finishes over laminate furniture before and it did pretty well. I still suggest using a good primer on it first though.
Topcoat It
With laminate furniture, I highly suggest giving it some extra protection. Give it a couple coats of Polycrylic after you finish painting it to really try and protect that surface.
Even if you follow all these steps, there will most likely come a time down the road when your painted piece of laminate furniture will chip or the paint may start to peel away. This is just the nature of painting laminate furniture.
Types of Paint for Plastic Surfaces
Plastic Planters Spray Painted with Geometric Designs
Spray Paint
Hands-down, anytime I have something plastic to paint, I head for the spray paint. It’s the easiest way to get the paint on there without brush strokes and gives pretty good adhesion on plastic pieces. Prime the piece first with a spray paint primer (especially if it’s really shiny) and then follow up with a few coats of spray paint. I’ve used Rust-Oleum, Krylon and Design Masters spray paint and have been pleased with all of them.
Types of Paint for Metal Surfaces
I generally go with one of two paints when it comes to metal surfaces: Oil-Based Paint or Spray Paint. If it’s a big metal piece that I’m painting, I’ll go with oil-based paint like I did with my metal handrail. If it’s something metal that’s smaller, I’ll go with spray paint.
Metal Stair Railings painted with Oil-Based Paint / Spray Painted Metal Laundry Hamper
Oil-Based Paint
Oil-Based paints bond really well to metal surfaces. You can use it in a paint sprayer if you want to or brush it on, which is what I tend to do. Just remember, and I know I’ve said this like 2.1 million times now, always use a good, high quality paintbrush! It really does make a world of difference when painting. One thing to remember when you are painting something with oil-based paint that’s bigger in scale is to work in sections. You can’t easily go back over places to touch them up after you’ve already put one coat of paint on. While oil-based paint takes longer to dry, that also means your finish gets messed up if you try to go back over a part that is partially dried. My personal pick for oil-based paint is Behr’s.
Spray Paint
If you’ve got something smaller that’s metal, let’s say a lamp or something, then I would head for the spray paint aisle. It’s just easier to work with and will still provide great adhesion and durability. I used spray paint on that metal laundry hamper you saw above.
Types of Paint for Upholstered Surfaces
So you’ve been considering painting some upholstery, eh? This is a topic that many people seem to have mixed feelings on. I have painted an upholstered chair before, however it was a chair that wasn’t going to get a whole lot of use, therefore I wasn’t too worried about the comfort of it.
Chair Upholstery painted with Velvet Finishes Paint
In that one instance, I used Velvet Finishes paint for the upholstery. I think it took about three coats to fully cover the upholstery. Upholstery does suck up a lot of paint, so be prepared to paint on multiple coats.
Those are my picks for the best types of paints for wood, laminate, metal, plastic and upholstery surfaces.
Do you have any favorites or other questions?
Now that you’ve read all the nitty-gritty details, you might find it useful to have a one-page guide on what kind of paint can be used on what kind of surface – lucky for you, I’ve made one just for you! Click below to get access to it!
If you’ve got any other painting questions at all, please leave your questions in the comments!
Need more painting help?
Click on any of the links below to get my opinion. (Which by no means is a professional opinion. I’ve only painted, oh, say 2.4 million pieces of furniture. Ok, that’s stretching it a bit.)
Types of Paint to Use on Kitchen Cabinets – I’ve painted cabinets five times now. Here’s my take on which paints to use.
Painting 101: Topcoats and When to Use Them – topcoats can be confusing, right? This guide breaks them all down.
Must-Have Tools and Supplies for Painting Furniture – my tried and true tools of the trade.
My Best Tips and Tricks for Painting Furniture – from over 10+ years of painting.
FAQ: Painting Furniture – all the questions I’ve ever been asked about painting in one.
Danielle says
This post is super helpful. Thank you!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
You are so welcome, Danielle! I’m glad to hear that!
Mariah h. says
Hello! I just recently painted my 70s avacado green metal kitchen cabinets…i took a trip to my local lowes and the lady informed me to get the “Olympic One, satin ” paint…should I do a top coat? It seems dry…very easy to chip or scrape…help! I did indeed prime x2 after a good sanding they turned out fantastic…just doesnt seem as if they’re going to last…thanks
Jenna says
Yes, I would definitely do a topcoat of some kind. I’m not super familiar with that type of paint you used, but I think you could use a Polyurethane or Polycrylic topcoat. Ask the paint desk where you bought the paint to be sure.
Terry says
What kind of paint for a tile floor.
Sara says
I know you have been painting a lot of trim on both houses. What brand, and what color do you use the most?? Sending lots of hugs to you and your family, at a time when you have so much on your plate!! Love your blog, and, look forward to reading every one!!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Thank you so much for all your virtual hugs, Sara. 🙂 They are greatly appreciated! For the trim at the new place, I used Behr’s Bit of Sugar in semi-gloss. For the trim at the last house, we used Crumb Cookie by Valspar, but I had it mixed in Behr paint because I’m partial to Behr. With any trim you paint, always go for a semi-gloss or gloss finish as it’s the easiest to clean and trim tends to get dirty quite often.
Ashley @Actually Ashley says
Wow, so much great info! Thank you! I am getting ready to paint in my new home. They previously used oil based paint on EVERYTHING- walls, trim, doors.. Any tips on painting over walls and trim that are currently oil based? I was thinking of using regular latex paint if possible.
Thanks!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hey Ashley! Glad it was helpful, unfortunately I may not be much help with your other question. 🙁 I’ve never actually had to deal with that – only the reverse where someone had painted oil-based over latex. I’ve heard that you can paint latex right over oil based, but then in this article it says to do a good bit of prepping first: http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/doors-and-windows/how-to-apply-latex-over-oil-based-paint My advice would be to get a couple sample pots of latex paint that you would use on your trim or wall – get the sheen you paint on there as well, not just any sample pots. Clean a small area of both the trim and wall in a not-so-noticeable place and then paint the latex paint on there and see how it does. Wait at least two weeks – a month to see if anything happens with it. I hope that helps somewhat!
Ashley @ Actually Ashley says
Thanks so much for the suggestions and the link! The article was really helpful. Sending thoughts and love to you and your family! ????
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
So glad it was helpful, Ashley! And thank you so much for the thoughts and love – means so much to us!
Melanie says
This post answers so many questions! Thanks so much for sharing!!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
You’re welcome, Melanie! Happy to help!
Jenny Dunn says
Fantastic post. A long time diyer but just started painting furniture cause I was super intimidated. Painted our dining room chairs and a week later they were chipped. Definitely taking in your tips for my future projects. Thanks!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Glad I could help, Jenny!
Ann Wright says
Jenna, First prayers and hugs to you as your family faces the cancer challenge. Have been there three times in 10 months with my breast cancer (I’m cured!), my uncle and now my mom. Read this and loved it: Cancer isn’t the big “C”; Jesus Christ is and he can whip cancer’s butt!
Thank you so much for this summary; it’s going to be helpful for so many projects as we bring two 1986 houses to 2016 designs.
We removed the carpeting and painted our stairs. Used Sherwin Williams All Surface Enamel Satin (acrylic latex) in Iron Ore … almost black but not quite. We wanted to put a poly on top but SW didn’t recommend doing that. What are your thoughts? We want this to last and not get scratched up. Any input from your experiences would be appreciated.
Love your blog! Read it daily via Bloglovin’
Ann
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hi Ann! thanks so much for your prayers and hugs – they mean so much to us.
As for the satin, I think I would listen to Sherwin Williams for the time being. Since it’s their paint, they might have more insight about it’s durability than I would. Just keep a good eye on the stairs and if they start to chip, go back to the store and tell them and get their advice or go ahead and test out some poly in a small spot and see how that works. Hope that helps! The color on the stairs sounds gorgeous!
Leslie says
You know, I’ve seen a lot of this information, but you really put it all together in a way that makes sense. I never thought to put a polycyclic over latex painted furniture (probably should have). Thanks for putting all this information together in one place.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
You are so welcome, Leslie! I’m glad it was helpful!
Teresa says
i really enjoyed reading ur post–very helpful–my question is—what kind of paint wud i use on a metal fireplace gas-log surround?? im expecting for u to say the oil-based but my concern is which one will take the heat and not start to peel off??? yuckkkk–that wud be awful
right now its gold color and have been wanting to change this for a VERY long time
anything u can tell me wud be appreciated
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
I’m assuming you are talking about the surround that is just outside of the fireplace surround the opening, correct? I haven’t done this before, so I can’t attest to how well it would work, but I know that Rust-Oleum makes a high-heat spray paint. I think the can shows a picture of a grill on it. I’m thinking that paint would be your best bet.
Nicki Manley says
I’m a home Stager and interior decorator and the brass fireplace inserts don’t always work well with the design. I have used BBQ spray paint, usually in a flat black. It’s in all big box stores right with the spray paints and formulated for high heat. Just tape with newspaper around it first and 1-2 light coats does the trick!
Great article!
Jenna says
Awesome, Nicki! Thanks for the tip!
Trisha says
I have just gotten a few chairs from a restaurant that was remodeling. I want to paint them a dark color. They are real wood. With a Cherrywood finish and it feels like a waxy finish. I tried sanding it. But it seems like it still has a waxy residue. What is the best paint for this and the best way to prep it? Thanks in advance!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
If you’re still feeling a waxy finish, after you sand them, I would definitely use a primer with them as well. Go ahead and sand them as much has you can – scuff up the finish as best you can to get good adhesion, then follow up with a primer, then your paint and topcoat.
Linda says
What topcoat would you use over a latex painted chair that will be outside under a roofed area. I did not use exterior paint because it is a decorative childs chair that I would have had to buy 5 colors for.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
If it’s under a roofed area and likely to get little to no contact with the elements, I would go with a polycrylic. A polyurethane would be tougher, but it also has the tendency to yellow paint and it sounds like this is a pretty decorative chair with different colors that you wouldn’t want to do that to. Another thought I just had was that you could probably use a spray paint clear topcoat. That would be a bit tougher than polycrylic. You should be able to get a satin finish at your local home improvement store that wouldn’t distract too much from the chair’s design.
Linda says
Thanks so much. Those are the options I had thought of but wondered if there was something I didn’t know about. Your questions and answers are very helpful.
Kandi says
What is the best type of paint for an outdoor wooden barn quilt? Also what kind of sealer can i put over the paint to protect it from the weather?
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
I would use an oil-based paint on that, Kandi. It will hold up the best to the elements. Finish it off with a polyurethane for protection.
A Lo says
This was so confusing to read! It was organized in a way where I spent more time trying to find where else I was supposed to read again. Too many ads and not much knowledgeable info.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hi A Lo! I’m sorry it was confusing to you. If you would like to ask any specific questions, feel free to leave them in the comments and I’m happy to answer them.
Katie says
What about painting over a veneer?
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hi Katie! I would rough it up with sandpaper first and then follow up at least one, if not two, coats of primer.
Barb Young says
Your post answered a lot of my questions except one. Floetrol – I have just a quart of paint to paint the bottom half of a coffee table. How much Floetrol to how much paint?? I will be staining the top of the table. Also, I plan on using two coats of Clark Kensington paint on the bottom half. Do I still need to paint this with the polycrylic too? Thanks for any help you can give.
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
For quarts of paint, add two ounces of floetrol. Unless you see the table just getting a lot of bumps or kicks from feet, I wouldn’t worry with a topcoat on the legs.
Heather says
I would appreciate tips on painting kitchen cabinets,,,,,from “glossy” oak shade to white….?
Many thanks in advance
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hi Heather. You’ll want to either sand or use a liquid sander on the cabinets first, then prime them, then come back with your paint and a topcoat.
Sharron says
I have an old pie safe that is naturally crackled. After cleaning it, what should I do next?
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hi Sharron! If you’re just wanting to keep that crackle finish, I will put a clear Polycrylic satin topcoat on it.
Sharron says
Thanks Jenna , I’m going to try that.
Chris Tulloch says
Hi, I painted my stair bannister and the paint was rubbing off within a year. It was latex on top of latex. Just wondering about best durability with oil and dirt from hands and if there should be a top coat of some kind. I don’t want to have to paint it every year! Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.
Chris Tulloch
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hi Chris! I haven’t heard of bannister paint rubbing off that quickly. I don’t know what brand of paint you used, but that could have had something to do with it. In terms of durability, oil based paint is by far the most durable. It’s more of a pain to work with, but in the long run it holds up best. You could try a topcoat on top of the latex paint as well. Go for a satin or semi-gloss sheen.
Sweta Goel says
Hi Jenna
I have started making stuff with MDF which is a product of wood. Which paint should i use on it for its durability?
I have made MDF organizers of various shapes and has laser cut designs on it.
Please help me
Thank u!!
Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof says
Hi Sweta! I’ve used MDF before and I generally use any type of paint on it that I normally would use on regular wood!
DeeMarie says
I purchased a portable electric fireplace. The fireplace slides into the frame. It has a marble finish. I doubt its real. When I looked at product specs, it said it was a marble veneer. The surface is smooth, hard, durable. It is a very yellowy ivory with tan marble strokes. I want to repaint this a white and grey/beige marble. I have no experience and wonder should I hire so done or try myself? How would you go about repainting this? See picshttp://cache.heater-home.com/images/classic-flame-23wm9043-s994-l.jpg
Jenna says
Hmmmm, this is a tough one, DeeMarie. I’ve never done anything like this before. Is the veneer slick and shiny? I’m assuming so. You would want a high-quality bonding primer to use on it and then you could paint it. The thing I’m most concerned about it the paint withstanding heat. If I were you, I would take that photo to my local Lowe’s or Home Depot and talk to the people at the paint desk there. Tell them what you are wanting to do. They should be able to give you some advice on the type of paint(s) to use. I’m sorry, I’m not more help, I would just hate to steer you in the wrong direction, since I’ve never dealt with something like this.
Lou says
Hi! This article has been a lifesaver for me – thank you! I was just wondering, should I just use an ordinary oil-based paint for a piece of wood that will be completely submerged in water, for a long time? Or does that require something special? I’m really not very well up on my types of paint as spray paint is my love which I can’t use for this slightly intricate, fiddly project 🙁
Jenna says
Hmmmmmmm, Lou. I’m not sure on this one. I’ve never dealt with something like this where it would be submerged under water for a long period of time. I would ask one of the paint guys at your local home improvement store, they might have seen something like this before. Sorry I’m not more help!
Lou says
Aww well thanks for getting back to me, really appreciate it! Love, love your house by the way – so much!!
Jenna says
Thank you so much, Lou!
Debbie says
I tried the Zinsser Bullseye 123 and it was horrible. It left lumps and bumps and in some spots removed itself. I am going to have to sand down the walls and start over in that room. What a nightmare.
Jenna says
Oh no, Debbie! I’m so sorry to hear that. I’m wondering if you got a bad can of paint. I would talk to the place where you bought it from.
Phyllis Howell says
My dining table has a wood grain formica top with wood around the edges. I was wanting to paint with chalk paint and distress it. Can I paint the formica?
Jenna says
Hi Phyllis! You can paint the formica, but I would rough it up with sandpaper first. Even then, it might still peel or scratch off over time.
Angie says
Hi, this article is beyond helpful, ranks so much for sharing!! I am just wondering if I should prime metal surfaces. I am assuming based on your suggestion for priming plastic (esp if really shiny) that you would also prime shiny metal, but just want to make sure.
P.S. sorry if this question posted twice iPad shut done while posting the first time lol
Jenna says
It definitely doesn’t hurt to prime metal especially if it is shiny. If it’s rusty at all, most definitely prime before painting.
Stephanie Mills says
I am couple of questions! First off what paint and method would you recommend for painting the old school formica countertops? My second question is what if any paint is there that will cover up that old pink tile on the walls that they had back in the 50`s??
Jenna says
Hi Stephanie! For the formica countertops, I would recommend either an oil-based paint or one of the specialty countertop paints that you can usually find at Lowe’s or Home Depot. As for the tile, I’ve only painted tile once and I used a Rustoleum tub and tile paint kit.
Emily says
This article is pretty useful!
I tested my baseboards with acetone and found that I have latex paint on my baseboards. The previous owners didn’t do a good job maintaining the baseboards and many of them are chipped so I’m planning to redo them with some semi-gloss latex paint. What brand is typically best?
Jenna says
Hi Emily! I have usually used Behr Semi-Gloss paints for all my trim work!
Betty says
What would you use for wicker furniture and baskets? I’ve used spray paint in the past with a gloss sealant and it always seems to rub off, specifically chairs with a lot of use.
Jenna says
With wicker furniture, you definitely want to spray the paint on in some way. If the spray paint is rubbing off, then I would suggest using an oil-based paint in a paint sprayer.
Ellen Henderson says
Thanks for the great info. Very helpful. Question: someone told me to use vinyl paint for kitchen cabinets. Have you heard of vinyl paints?
Jenna says
Hmmmm, I haven’t heard of vinyl paints, Ellen. I’m sorry!
Abby says
Thanks for the info! I have a KidKraft brand table that the top needs re-finished. I had to sand it some due to some chipping but I feel like the durable finish on the surface of the Kidkraft furniture might be difficult to paint and get it to stick. Do you have any advice?
Jenna says
If you’ve already sanded it and if there is still any shiny finish left on top, use a deglosser, followed up by a good primer, then your paint.
Tina says
What about painting on glass?
Jenna says
I’ve never really painted on glass, Tina. I think you could use acrylic paint from a craft store for that, but I would double check with a clerk there.
Marge says
I have two concrete urns that I bought years ago the finish was. Silver patina over copper. They are kind of fading. How to I achieve the patina. Again
Jenna says
Hi Marge! Unfortunately, I don’t think I’ll be any help here. I’ve never done a finish like that before. I’m sorry!
Parul says
Hi. I have painted a wooden tray with acrylic paint and then applied gloss varnish on that. How to clean it, can it be washed?
Jenna says
You should just be able to wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
Christo Pieters says
I need to paint my wooden windows of my seaside cottage. Currently painted with white enamel. My paint contractor suggest we use white roof paint to do so. Your opinion?
Jenna says
I don’t have any experience with that type of paint. If it is roof paint though, I would think that would hold up pretty well.
Syd says
What’s the best way to paint a basket? I am using a custom color to paint a kitchen island but the island has two slide out baskets. Is there a way to get a custom paint in spray paint or do I need to use a sprayer?
Jenna says
If you wanted a custom color, you’d have to use a paint sprayer. Otherwise, I’d just suggest a can of spray paint.
J says
I saw a tutorial recently where someone mixed baking soda with latex paint to make chalk paint. Is this something you’re familiar with? I couldn’t believe my eyes!
Jenna says
I have made a version of chalk paint with grout, but not with baking soda. You can see my version recipe here: https://rainonatinroof.com/2012/01/diy-chalk-paint-and-results/
J says
Thank you for all this info! It was really helpful!
Niamh says
Hi, I have a lovely mahogany wardrobe that I want to paint over but I’m unsure if I should sand it first or whether painting a white base before adding the colour I want it to be is the right way to follow….help please?? As you can tell I am a furniture paining novice!
Jenna says
If it has a shiny finish at all, you’ll need to either sand or degloss it first. Then, prime it and follow with your paint.
Jean says
hello I just found your pin on Pinterest and have been reading all your great advice when I went to town this afternoon after reading this article I found a distressed table / magazine rack in someone’s garbage and thought what better way to practice then on something that’s free my question is can you tell me is something that is laminate easy to know that it’s laminate and since it has spindles do you have a favorite spray paint for wood. I saw her in the other comments that somebody was sending you hugs for something that you were going through hugs and prayers for your family and may you be blessed with the healing that you need thank you for any advice you can give me for my questions
Jenna says
Thank you, Jean. 🙂
If something is laminate, it usually has a super smooth, slick top. As for spray paint, I have used RustOleum for painting lots of different things including wood and it’s always done pretty well for me. Hope that helps!
Ridley Fitzgerald says
It’s great to learn more about what types of paint are best to use. I like how you said that oil-based paints are good for furniture. I’m not sure what’s best for our walls, though. What would you suggest for that?
Jenna says
Go latex for walls! 🙂
Rebecca says
I am looking to paint my kitchen cabinets in a farmhouse white. Are there any Baer favorites that are good. I just don’t want to pick one and it not be what I want.
Jenna says
I would definitely get a sample pot of paint first and make sure you like the color. I think Swiss Coffee by Behr is a good creamy white that might work for you.
Melissa says
Wish I would have found this info yesterday. I used SW sample paint on exterior rocking chair. When I called to ask what top coat to use I was told it’s not paint but I could use I to as a primer then use an a high gloss oil based paint. Ace hardware sold me floor and trim oil based enamel. It’s the perfect color and great sheen but my question is, Is it really done? I want the chair on deck in all weather. Did I screw it up? My hands will not let me strip or sand anymore so easy is better at this point.
Thank you
Melissa
Jenna says
It sounds like that Ace hardware floor and trim oil based enamel will do the trick. That stuff is usually meant for interior or exterior floors, so typically that would mean it’s pretty tough.
kathleen white says
how do I paint over varnished outdoor bench please
Jenna says
You’re probably going to want to sand it, then buy heavy duty exterior paint to use on it.
Igor says
Hi, Jenna! Great article 🙂
Could you give me an advice, please? I need to paint my old vintage wooden dresser, so I’ve been looking for the best paint. By the way, I’ve never painted anything before and I’m kinda afraid of spoiling my dresser. So the paint also should be easy to apply. Before I stumbled upon this article https://woodimprove.com/best-paints-for-wood/. Top 2 paints seem to be a good choice, but I may make a mistake. Now I’m glad that I found your article because Velvet Finishes that you mentioned in your article seems great for wooden furniture too. What would you suggest? Thank you.
Jenna says
Hi Igor! You could absolutely use the Velvet Finishes on your dresser. And honestly, if this is the first time you are painting something, that’s probably what I would suggest.
Summit Roof and Exterior Painting says
Thanks for giving us suggestions for paint. These all are very useful for us while we think about to paint our home.
Shanon Norton says
Hi, I have used white acrylic paint on wood & on actual window surfaces & they turned out fine, looked great & I added a clear top coat to seal it in for it to be long lasting. For some of the projects I stored in our garage & a year later the white on them has yellowed. I don’t understand why this is happening so I’m reaching out to you. Help!
Thank you!
Brendan mc Gill says
Hi there I have a chair thst I want to repaint but it looks difficult can I send you a photo of the chair
Debbie says
A family member painted my granddaughter’s bunk bed which was a white laminate, and it’s now bubbling up in places and peeling off! What’s the best “fix it” for this problem?
Eric Woody says
What paint should I use on a bird house?
Jodi Garmatz says
How would you paint thw outside of a vintage camper and what type of paint would you use?
Dawn says
Could you give advise on painting vinyl covered bench seats? Please and Thank you