Really durable paint for furniture?

[englishteacha]

I'm painting an old rocking chair for my daughter's room, and am looking for recommendations for a very durable paint. Is there such a thing, really? I envision lots of nights rocking, lots of books read, and lots of snuggling, so I want the paint to hold up well. I have other furniture to paint after the rocker, so I hope to find a really great paint! Thanks!

 

[LJSquishy]

Whichever paint you go with, the prep is very important. Make sure you lightly sand the entire surface with a fine-grit sandpaper to take any sheen off from the current finish, then wipe down with a damp cloth. I would then prime it with Zinsser BIN 1-2-3 latex primer and let it dry for a few days to one week. Then, paint 1-2 coats of your choice paint, letting each coat dry about a week in between if you do more than one coat. Finally, you will want to protect the new painted finish with a clear coat of some kind.

 

[scout68]

I have been in the coatings business for longer than I care to remember and I would steer you in the direction of a hard drying Oil Based Paint. Its a bit harder to work with and will off gas (stink) longer than latex but the durability gained will be the reward. You will only have to wash it down whenever necessary for years to come.

good luck

 

[VeeHam]

I've heard from many people that Annie Sloan paints are fantastic. I have yet to use it though. You buy the Annie Sloan wax and apply a coat or two and it holds up great.

 

[NotUrsula]

Marine enamel. It's oil-based and meant to handle salt water and weather.