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Best Finish For Painted Furniture (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to add a pop of color and personality to your furniture, then a finish for painted furniture is just what you need. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. But fear not, we’re here to guide you through the decision-making process.

Before making a purchase, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, think about the surface you will be applying the finish to. Is it a porous or non-porous material? This will determine whether you need an oil-based or water-based finish. Another important factor is the level of durability you need. If the piece of furniture will be used frequently, then you’ll want a finish that is tough and scratch-resistant. Lastly, consider the look you want to achieve. Do you want a high-gloss or matte finish? Each has its own unique characteristics that can make your furniture stand out.

Are you tired of drab and boring furniture? Do you want to add a touch of personality to your home décor? Look no further than a finish for painted furniture. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? Consider the surface, durability, and desired look. Don’t settle for bland furniture – enhance it with the perfect finish.

10 Best Finish For Painted Furniture

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for furniture and cabinetry, providing a durable and smooth finish without yellowing or harsh chemicals.
2
The product is ideal for antique and furniture restoration on surfaces such as wood, glass, and metal with a high gloss finish.
3
This product is ideal for use as an end table for any living space.
4
Ideal for executive offices seeking a traditional, sophisticated look with ample storage space and a sturdy, leather top surface.
5
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, floors, walls, home decor and accessories with a non-toxic matte finish.
6
The product is ideal for use as an end table with a distressed paint finish.
7
This product is ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, and accessories with a basic kit including paint, wax topcoat, brush, and color card.
8
This product is ideal for providing a high gloss finish on furniture, metal, glass, and wood surfaces.
9
The product is ideal for providing storage and organization with an antiqued paint finish.
10
It is ideal for use with chalk finish furniture paint as a protective and finishing wax.
Ideal for furniture and cabinetry, providing a durable and smooth finish without yellowing or harsh chemicals.
The product is ideal for antique and furniture restoration on surfaces such as wood, glass, and metal with a high gloss finish.
Ideal for executive offices seeking a traditional, sophisticated look with ample storage space and a sturdy, leather top surface.
Ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, floors, walls, home decor and accessories with a non-toxic matte finish.
The product is ideal for use as an end table with a distressed paint finish.
This product is ideal for painting furniture, cabinets, and accessories with a basic kit including paint, wax topcoat, brush, and color card.
This product is ideal for providing a high gloss finish on furniture, metal, glass, and wood surfaces.
The product is ideal for providing storage and organization with an antiqued paint finish.
It is ideal for use with chalk finish furniture paint as a protective and finishing wax.

1. General Finishes Water Based Milk Paint, 1 Quart, Lamp Black

This premium furniture paint is designed to be extremely durable and has a high adhesion rating, making it suitable for use both indoors and outdoors. It is self-sealing, which means you do not need to apply a topcoat. However, it is important to note that if you apply a clear topcoat over bright white paint, yellowing may occur due to a reaction to the substrate. This is also true for light color paints, but the yellowing is less noticeable. The paint can be applied over raw wood or prepped existing finishes, making it perfect for upcycling and cabinet refinishing. You can apply 2-3 coats using a roller, brush, or sprayer with an HVLP 2.0 tip. The paint is water-based, which means you can easily clean up with water.

Pros

  • Extremely durable and has a high adhesion rating
  • Suitable for use both indoors and outdoors
  • Self-sealing, which means you do not need to apply a topcoat
  • Can be applied over raw wood or prepped existing finishes
  • Perfect for upcycling and cabinet refinishing
  • Water-based, which makes for easy clean up with water

Cons

  • – Yellowing may occur if a clear topcoat is applied over bright white paint
  • – Light color paints may experience yellowing due to topcoat application, but it will be less noticeable.

2. Belgium Blue Lacquer Spray For Antique Restoration.

Transform your old furniture pieces into elegant and sophisticated items with Amy Howard's Nitrocellulose Lacquer Spray Paint. This furniture spray paint creates a stunning Belgium blue high gloss finish that adds a pop of color to any room. The 2-pack lacquer spray works great on most surfaces, including wood, metal, and glass, making it perfect for a wide range of furniture pieces such as dining tables, dressers, vanities, hutches, coffee tables, and other rustic or modern home decor items.

The nitrocellulose spray comes in a 12-ounce can that is easy to store and provides long-lasting and enjoyable application. This professional spray paint offers reliable quality, vibrant colors, and excellent adhesion to bring life back into your furniture. Applying the lacquer spray is easy – simply coat your piece with the spray and let it dry for an hour; wait one hour between coats and apply up to three coats. Each spray can cover up to 60 square feet of furniture.

Amy Howard At Home is a brand that has been providing superior-quality, home-enhancing products for the last 20 years. Their products deliver the historic beauty of cobbled European streets and centuries-old art pieces. So, whether you want to rescue, restore, or redecorate your old furniture pieces, Amy Howard At Home is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

  • Creates a stunning Belgium blue high gloss finish
  • Great for most surfaces including wood, metal, and glass
  • Offers reliable quality, vibrant colors, and excellent adhesion
  • Each spray can cover up to 60 square feet of furniture
  • Easy to apply

3. Jofran: , Painted Canyon, Square End Table, 24"w X 24"d X 24"h, Painted Canyon Finish, (Set Of 1)

Enhance the look of your living space with this stylish and functional end table. The table is made of high-quality acacia solids that ensure durability and longevity. It features a finished back that allows you to place it anywhere in the room, and coordinates with other furniture pieces from the Painted Canyon collection, including the bedroom, dining, and media/storage pieces. The drawer dimensions are 12"W x 13.25"D x 3.5"H, providing ample storage space for your essentials. The shelf dimensions are 21.5"W x 21.5"D x 10.5"H, offering additional storage and display space. You can complete the occasional group with matching cocktail table (1600-1) and sofa table (1600-4), both of which are available separately.

This end table is easy to assemble and maintain, making it a perfect addition to any home. Its classic design and sturdy construction ensure that it will last for years to come.

Overall, this end table is a great combination of style and functionality, and a must-have for anyone looking to upgrade their living space.

Pros

  • Made of high-quality acacia solids that ensure durability and longevity
  • Drawer dimensions of 12"W x 13.25"D x 3.5"H provide ample storage space for essentials
  • Shelf dimensions of 21.5"W x 21.5"D x 10.5"H offer additional storage and display space
  • Coordinates with other furniture pieces from the Painted Canyon collection
  • Easy to assemble and maintain

Cons

  • – Matching cocktail table and sofa table are available separately

4. Black & Brown Executive Desk With File Drawers

The Black and Brown Traditional Desk is the perfect addition to any home office. Constructed with a combination of hardwood solids and cherry veneers, this desk boasts durability and style. The desk features two file drawers that provide ample space for important documents and a center drawer with a drop-front for easy keyboard access.

The desk's traditional style is highlighted by its black and brown finish, adding elegance to any workspace. The hardwood solids and cherry veneers make for a sturdy and long-lasting desk that will stand the test of time. The desk's spacious file drawers allow for easy organization of important documents, while the center drawer's drop-front makes typing a breeze.

Whether you're working from home or simply need a space to manage household tasks, the Black and Brown Traditional Desk is the perfect choice. With its durable construction and stylish design, this desk is a must-have for any home office.

Pros

  • Constructed with hardwood solids and cherry veneers for durability
  • Features two file drawers for ample space to store important documents
  • Center drawer with drop-front provides easy keyboard access

5. Jolie Matte Finish Furniture Paint – Forest Green

The Jolie Paint is a water-based paint that provides a quick and easy solution for your interior painting needs. It requires minimal to no prep work as sanding and priming are not necessary. The paint has easy application on various surfaces and is safe to use indoors as it is non-toxic and low VOC paint. The water-based feature of the paint makes it easy to clean up with soap and water.

This paint is designed to provide superior coverage; one 32oz quart can cover about 150 sq. ft, while a 4oz sample can cover up to 20 sq. ft. Most colors need only 1-2 coats for excellent coverage. The paint dries quickly in just 30 minutes to a flat (matte) finish, making it ideal for those who want a quick and easy painting solution. To achieve a higher sheen, users can use Jolie Finishing Wax and buff it accordingly.

Pros

  • Minimal to no prep work required
  • Easy application on various surfaces
  • Water-based and non-toxic paint
  • Superior coverage with one 32oz quart covering about 150 sq. ft
  • Quick drying time of just 30 minutes to a flat (matte) finish
  • Can be used with Jolie Finishing Wax to achieve a higher sheen

6. Great Deal Furniture Nancy Distressed End Table, Distressed Paint

Add a touch of eco-friendliness to your home decor with this recycled wood end table that offers a unique, one-of-a-kind look. The front faces of the drawer and cabinet are delicately carved, giving it a charming boho appearance. The table is finished with splashes of color that create a stunning distressed look, which is unique to each hand-painted piece. It comes with a single drawer and a cabinet space that offers ample storage for your essentials. The black sunburst pull knobs add to the eclectic design of this piece. Measuring 18.00” W x 13.00” D x 26.00” H, this end table is the perfect size for any furniture arrangement. The best part? You don't have to worry about assembling it as it comes ready to use straight out of the box.

Pros

  • Made with recycled wood for an eco-friendly option
  • Delicately carved front faces of the drawer and cabinet for a charming boho look
  • Stunning distressed finish created by hand-painted splashes of color, making each piece unique
  • Offers ample storage with one drawer and a cabinet space
  • Black sunburst pull knobs accentuate the eclectic design
  • No assembly required, ready to use straight out of the box

7. Noir Furniture Paint Set With Accessories

Looking for a perfect gift for a beginner or experienced painter? Look no further than this amazing painting kit. It is not only perfect for DIYers but also comes with everything you need to update your furniture, cabinets, and home accessories. This kit includes a Color Card and three must-have products: Jolie Paint Quart, 500ml Clear Finishing Wax, and a Large Signature Brush. With enough paint to cover about 150 square feet, you can easily transform your space with this kit.

One of the best things about this kit is that it requires minimal to no prep work. You don't have to worry about sanding or priming before you start painting. It is easy to apply on a variety of interior surfaces and provides a smooth, flawless finish. The best part? It is water-based, making it easy to clean up with soap and water. It is also non-toxic and low VOC, making it safe to use indoors.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced painter, this kit is perfect for you. It is easy to use, provides a professional finish, and is a great value for money. So, if you want to update your space with a fresh coat of paint, this kit is all you need.

Pros

  • Easy to use and apply
  • Provides a smooth, flawless finish
  • Water-based for easy clean-up with soap and water
  • Non-toxic and low VOC – safe to use indoors
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for outdoor use

8. Vendome Grey Lacquer Spray For Home.

Amy Howard At Home's Nitrocellulose Lacquer is a top-of-the-line furniture spray paint that provides an outstanding high gloss finish on multiple surfaces. This nitrocellulose lacquer spray paint produces a remarkable pop of color and depth, resulting in a professional-looking finish.

This lacquer spray can be used on various surfaces, such as wood, metal, and glass. For optimal results, it is recommended to clean the piece thoroughly before applying the spray. To ensure that the lacquer adheres to almost any surface, it can be combined with Amy Howard At Home's spray primer.

Each can of lacquer spray paint covers up to 60 sq. ft. without affecting the high gloss finish. To achieve the most incredible results, the user can layer coats of lacquer by waiting one hour in-between coats and applying up to three coats. After the final coat dries, the finish can be sealed with Amy Howard At Home's Bright Idea clear coat lacquer.

Overall, this nitrocellulose lacquer spray paint is an excellent choice for those who want to transform their furniture or any other surface into a professional-looking piece with a high gloss finish.

Pros

  • Produces a remarkable pop of color and depth resulting in a professional-looking finish
  • Can be used on various surfaces such as wood, metal, and glass
  • Each can covers up to 60 sq. ft. without compromising the high gloss finish
  • Can be layered for incredible results
  • Includes a clear coat lacquer to seal the final finish

9. Sauder Harbor View Storage Cabinet, Antiqued Paint Finish

Looking for a furniture piece that can help you hide your clutter and chaos? Look no further than this storage cabinet! Featuring louver detailed doors that open up to reveal hidden storage space, this cabinet is perfect for anyone looking to keep their home looking neat and tidy. With four adjustable shelves, you can customize the storage options to fit your specific needs. The full upper shelf also provides additional storage space for miscellaneous items.

This storage cabinet is not only functional, but it also looks great too. The solid wood knobs add an extra touch of class to the overall look of the cabinet. And with tip restraint safety strap included, you can rest assured that your family's safety is a top priority.

Measuring 35 1/2" W x 16 3/4" D x 61" H and weighing in at 122 lbs, this storage cabinet is the perfect addition to any home looking for both style and functionality.

Pros

  • Hidden storage space helps keep clutter and chaos hidden away
  • Four adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options
  • Solid wood knobs add an extra touch of class to the overall look of the cabinet
  • Tip restraint safety strap included for added safety

Best Finish For Painted Furniture FAQs

Can you apply a clear coat over painted furniture?

Yes, you can apply a clear coat over painted furniture. In fact, it is highly recommended to protect the paint and extend the life of your furniture. Clear coats come in various types such as water-based, oil-based, and polyurethane. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the right one for your project.

Before applying the clear coat, make sure the painted furniture is clean and dry. Sand the surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections and create a smooth surface for the clear coat to adhere to. Apply the clear coat with a brush, roller, or sprayer in thin, even coats, allowing adequate drying time between each coat. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended number of coats and drying time.

Keep in mind that clear coats can alter the appearance of the paint, so it's a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure you're happy with the final result. With proper application and care, a clear coat can add a beautiful and durable finish to your painted furniture.

How do you properly prep painted furniture for finishing?

Properly prepping painted furniture for finishing is essential to ensure a smooth and durable finish. The first step is to clean the furniture thoroughly using warm soapy water to remove any dirt, grime, or wax buildup. If there is any peeling or flaking paint, it should be sanded down to create a smooth surface. Any dents, scratches, or holes should be filled with wood filler and sanded down to ensure a seamless finish. Once the surface is smooth, it should be wiped down with a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris.

Next, it's important to prime the furniture before applying any finishing coats. A good quality primer will help to seal the surface and provide a base for the topcoat to adhere to. Once the primer has dried, it's time to sand the surface again using fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface for the topcoat. Finally, apply the desired finishing coat, whether it's paint, stain, or varnish, following the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying time.

Properly prepping painted furniture for finishing is a time-consuming process, but it's essential to achieve a beautiful and long-lasting finish. With patience and attention to detail, you can transform your worn-out furniture into a stunning masterpiece that will last for years to come.

Is it necessary to use a sealer on painted furniture before applying a finish?

Yes, it is necessary to use a sealer on painted furniture before applying a finish. Applying a sealer helps to protect the painted surface from damage caused by moisture, heat, and other environmental factors. It also helps to ensure that the finish adheres properly to the surface and provides a smooth, even finish.

There are several types of sealers available, including water-based and oil-based options. Water-based sealers are easy to apply and dry quickly, but they may not provide as much protection as oil-based sealers. Oil-based sealers take longer to dry, but they are more durable and provide better protection.

Before applying a sealer, it is important to make sure that the painted surface is clean and free of any debris or dust. It is also important to choose a sealer that is compatible with the type of paint you used on your furniture.

Overall, using a sealer is an important step in the painting process that helps to ensure the longevity and durability of your finished project.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when finishing painted furniture?

Finishing painted furniture can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a beautiful and long-lasting finish. However, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid when finishing painted furniture.

Firstly, not preparing the surface properly can lead to a poor finish. It is important to sand the furniture thoroughly and clean it before painting to ensure that the paint adheres properly. Secondly, using the wrong type of paint can also result in a poor finish. Always use the recommended paint for the material you are painting on.

Another mistake is not using the right tools for the job. Using a low-quality brush or roller can result in a streaky finish. It is important to invest in high-quality brushes and rollers for a smooth and even finish.

Finally, rushing through the process can also lead to mistakes. Take your time and allow each layer of paint to dry completely before applying another coat.

In conclusion, to avoid common mistakes when finishing painted furniture, prepare the surface properly, use the right type of paint, invest in high-quality tools, and take your time during the process.

What is the best type of finish for painted furniture?

When it comes to choosing the best type of finish for painted furniture, there are several factors to consider, such as the type of paint you used, the look you want to achieve, and the durability you need.

One of the most popular finishes for painted furniture is a clear coat of polyurethane. This type of finish provides a glossy or satin sheen that protects the paint from scratches, stains, and fading. It also adds depth and richness to the color of the paint. Polyurethane is a durable and long-lasting finish, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas, such as dining tables or chairs.

Another option is wax. Wax finishes provide a soft, matte sheen that enhances the natural texture of the wood. They are easy to apply and give painted furniture a vintage or antique look. However, wax finishes are not as durable as polyurethane, and they need to be reapplied more often to maintain their look.

Lastly, you can opt for a varnish or lacquer finish. These finishes provide a hard, high-gloss sheen that is extremely durable and resistant to water, chemicals, and heat. However, they are more difficult to apply and require more maintenance than other finishes.

Ultimately, the best type of finish for your painted furniture depends on your personal preference, the type of paint you used, and the level of durability you need.

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