Expert: Greg Scholl - 6/22/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have 5 pieces of furniture for my bedroom I want to paint white. Some pieces have a finish and some have had the finish removed. What primer, paint, and paint brush would you recommend? It is important to me that the white paint does NOT yellow, is a hard satin finish, and not show brush strokes.  Is all that possible?

ANSWER: Hi Denise, to paint without brush strokes one needs to use something other than a brush. Spraying is the best way to a smooth professional finish,and spray paint like Krylon or the Rustoleum Universal paints are capable of a very smooth professional finish with the right spray technique,(which can be learned), but it can be a bit more costly, (but not a lot), and messy requiring a respirator and proper ventilation or spraying out of doors. Using the new small,white, foam trim rollers can also give a good finish.In combination with a good quality brush, (I like the Purdy 1 1/2" angled sash brush),one can get great results. Use the best paint you can get, like the Benjamin Moore Acrylic enamels, (Satin, Pearl, or Eggshell finish), and consider adding a paint flow additive like Floetrol, which will make the paint level and flow out better, leaving a smoother finish. Modern acrylic/latex paints will not yellow, and you can take it a step further and clear coat the white with an Acrylic urethane clear.All of this does take a bit of skill and good painting technique, work in a well lit, clean environment with still air, and you should be able to get excellent results. Anyone can paint, but it does take some care and technique, and the best tools and materials to get an exceptional job.Hope that helps a little- post back if need be- regards- Greg

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: You didn't address which primer you would recommend.

Have you used Benjamin Moore Acrylic enamels to paint furniture?

Answer
I have used Ben Moore paints to paint cabinets, furniture, trim, mantles....I like the Satin Impervo the best. They still show the oil base version on their website, which is interesting because here in CT I know we can't buy it due to the new VOC regulations, I've tried to find it, because it's my favorite....MUCH rebranding and reformulation has gone on in the last 2 years or so, as well as new waterborne technologies coming into use.....and the waterborne version of the Impervo is a GREAT paint as well.

http://www.benjaminmoore.com/bmpsweb/portals/bmps.portal?_nfpb=true&_windowLabel

The "Regal" line is also an excellent Acrylic enamel that I have used extensively:
http://www.benjaminmoore.com/bmpsweb/portals/bmps.portal?_nfpb=true&_windowLabel

I would use the Ben Moore primer as well.....or something like Zinsser's Bullseye 1-2-3