balderdash111

Hi all

Looking to paint some children's bookshelves. Just a basic white with a glossy finish.

They are currently just unfinished wood.

So, I am trying to get some info on what kind of paint to use. I'm told that I need to use oil-based paint, as it is more resistant to dings and chipping. Oil-based is bad for the environment, though, and can be a real pain in the neck to use (smells, dries longer, doesn't clean easily, etc).

What do you all think?

And do you think I need to prime it first?

__________________
A little silliness now and then is cherished by the wisest men. -- Willy Wonka

cj2112

Prime it first, latex will be fine, and is much easier to work with.

Daniel_

Certainly use a primer. Personally, I'd use oil based paint (we did for my daughter's bookshelves) as it is harder wearing and gives a better finish.

The smell is not too bad if you ventilate well.

But emulsion (latex, if you're American) would be OK, just I'm a perfectionist.

__________________

╔═════════════════════════════════════════╗
Overhead, the Albatross hangs motionless upon the air,
And deep beneath the rolling waves,
In labyrinths of Coral Caves,
The Echo of a distant time
Comes willowing across the sand;
And everthing is Green and Submarine
╚═════════════════════════════════════════╝

fresnelly

Latex is plenty durable. Do three coats and use a gloss or semi-gloss. It will be easier to clean than with eggshell or flat.

__________________
Building an artificial intelligence that appreciates Mozart is easy. Building an A.I. that appreciates a theme restaurant is the real challenge - Kit Roebuck - Nine Planets Without Intelligent Life

Bossnass

If you anticipate lots of use and abuse, look for melamine paint. Little more expensive, but creates a very durable and washable surface. I've used it to repaint old kids waterskis and to finish the inside of shop cabinets.

j8ear

I'm pretty sure this only available in Canada as far as North America goes. I've looked, as my wife researched it, determined this to be the case, and doubting her, I discovered she was right.

In this sitch I will definately agree with the prime it first, paint it with multiple coats of latex camp.

-bear

__________________
It's alot easier to ask for forgiveness then it is to ask for permission.

cyrnel

If the underlying surface is compatible I've always liked the look and durability of oil based paint. It's definitely the long-term solution.

Besides, oil is good for children. Gives their eyes a nice shine.

__________________
There are a vast number of people who are uninformed and heavily propagandized, but fundamentally decent. The propaganda that inundates them is effective when unchallenged, but much of it goes only skin deep. If they can be brought to raise questions and apply their decent instincts and basic intelligence, many people quickly escape the confines of the doctrinal system and are willing to do something to help others who are really suffering and oppressed." -Manufacturing Consent: Noam Chomsky and the Media, p. 195

kazoo

An option for the gloss and durability of oil without the odor is waterborne paints. Muralo is the only brand of same that I've used-you'll need to find a commercial paint dealer who handles it-forget the shite that big box stores market.

__________________
There ain't nothin' more powerful than the odor of mendacity -Big Daddy

Lady Sage

Latex paint is a gift from the gods! Prime first though.

__________________
If only closed minds came with closed mouths.
Minds are like parachutes, they function best when open.
It`s Easier to Change a Condom Than a Diaper
Yes, the rumors are true... I actually AM a Witch.