Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - Table/Chair Refinishing

Due, in part, to extensive damage, I wish to painting an Ethan Allen dining room set. I want to obtain the "country French" finish that both Ethan Allen and Thomasville, as well as others, are now offerring.

I am a complete novice - although I have general "DIY experience and knowledge".

In researching the project, I have received conflicting strategies to accomplish the above. Obviously, I want the most professional looking job possible with the least amount of work...

I have been told to strip, do a "spit coat" and then lacquer.

I have also been told because I was going paint, a "chemical etcher" was all that was necessary.

Which is your opinion?

Also, I have been told that lacquer is all that is required. However, we are not the most "careful" folks in the world... Would a protective topcoat on the tabletop be helpful. If so, what?

Also, I've been told lacquer or oil-based enamel?

I guess, what I'm looking for is clarification and/or a tie-breaker opinion on how to proceed.

Thank you.

Stripping is not necessary. A thorough sanding to remove the current sheen, followed by a primer (I'd use either BIN or KILZ), then the paint of your choice.

For durability, I'd suggest a semi-gloss enamel, either water based (latex) or oil based - your choice.

You don't have many options for a protective topcoat. Most of the 'clear' finishes on the market actually have an amber cast, which will change the colors you're working with. I'd suggest Minwax polycrylic - it will adhere to a painted surface (polyurethane won't). The downside there is it has a gloss sheen - but you can dull it down with steel wool.