Nothing is more frustrating than spending hours upon hours perfecting that perfect piece of furniture, only to watch it get scratched, dented, and chipped almost immediately. Normal wear and tear can destroy even the best DIY project, unless you go the extra mile to protect your investment. Here are the best ways to make your DIY actually last.
Primer
Don’t skimp on primer. Even if your paint says you don’t need it, use it anyway. Even if you really don’t want to, take the time, get the primer, and even add an extra coat if you can. It helps add durability to the wood itself and helps the paint adhere really well.
Paint
Of course, using a good quality paint, and perhaps an extra coat or two can add durability, but here’s the real secret: Let. It. Dry. You need to allow your paint to dry fully before adding second and third coats. We’re talking a full 24 hours people! If you add wet paint on top of wet paint, you’ll be able to peel it off before you even finish. Let each coat dry completely.
If you are looking for a great brush,
Clear Coat
Once the paint has fully dried, you have the option to apply a glossy clear coat such as my preferred choices, Polycrylic or Polyurethane. This clear coat works well on both chalk and latex paint. For items prone to heavy use, like kitchen tables or high-traffic pieces, multiple coats can be applied for added durability and protection against wear and tear.
Wax
Applying wax provides a visually appealing finish and offers a degree of protection. However, its soft nature makes it susceptible to melting at extremely high temperatures. Therefore, it might not be the most suitable option for items like kitchen tables or other pieces prone to frequent dings and scratches. While multiple layers of wax can be easily added to enhance beauty, it falls short in providing the same level of protection as a clear coat would.
