Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - Repainting Bookcases

I recently had a mantle put on my fireplace and it is white to match the woodwork, I have 2 curio cabinets on both sides and they are more of a blonde color. I was wondering what I would have to use after I sand and use BIN. I need recommendations for the best paint for this (white semi-gloss) and what my final coat should be. Also what brushes to use. This is my first attempt but I really want to do it right. The furniture is only a year old but it looks terrible now next to the white mantle. HELP Thanks,
Marilyn

Marilyn:

I'd use an acrylic enamel - water cleanup wins for me.

For a brush, I like a 2-1/2" or 3" angle sash brush, synthetic fiber - not bristle. If you're not familiar with the name, the guy at the paint store will be. You'll see immediately how the angle of the bristles will let you work more easily in corners. Pick it up and try it - get the size that feels right in your hand. BTW - if you're going to work out of a quart can, buy the 2-1/2" - the 3" just barely fits - a pain to deal with.

The only other advice I would have right now is to make certain you've sanded out any irregularities in the previous finish - they show up more under a coat of paint than under a clear finish. Now's the time to deal with them.

George Thanks for your advice. When I'm finished with the painting, do I need a sealer or something like that to protect the finish? Marilyn

Marilyn:

A good grade of paint should be enough - a coat of something else on top is not needed.

Thanks for your help George, I'll get to work on it right away. Marilyn