I've spent the better part of the evening reading through the posts and learned many interesting tips.

I plan to go to S-W over the weekend (they are having a sale) and buy paint for my latest project. I will be painting our family room in a satin/eggshell finish. Also, recently we had a built-in bookcase added to the room. (Nightmare story for another forum! )

Right now the bookcase is unpainted and just has a single coat of primer on it. I think it would be nice to match the door and window trims to give the room a pulled together look.

Here are my questions:

1) Should I paint it in a high-gloss or semi-gloss? It will have books and stuff on it. I have a feeling my toddler will take over the bottom shelf for his toys.

2) Should I paint it with a roller, foam rollar or paintbrush?

3) Do I need to put a clear coat on it when it's finished being painted for more protection?

Thanks in advance!! I look forward to your replies.

Mari

 

Either one would be fine
It's a matter of personal preference at this point
Either is better than flat for cleanablity, which may be an issue on the lower shelves
If you use a roller, you will still need to brush where the roller can't fit
Personally, I would use a good quality pad for a bookcase, or just brush it
I wouldn't want the slight texture left by my rollers on the bookcase
But really any way would probably do just fine for you
Ask at the SW store, tell them what you are doing
Not if you go to S-W and tell them what you want
They should suggest a good durable paint for you
I often paint shelving for commercial clients, a very rough environment, and I don't clear coat them
...though some extreme cases I do use a heavy duty floor paint

 

I would highly recomend SWP's proclassic waterborne enamel for your bookcase. It dries as hard as oil base enamel with all the good features of latex.

 

Is that the stuff that's supposed to leave no/few brush lines?
I haven't used that yet, I'm waiting for the next chance to try it though
I was thinking of painting some trim around the house, just to try it

 

I think I found my answer
http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?t=235661

 

Thanks everyone! I appreciate all the help!