Confused about finishing wax

[Alm0stAwesome]

Hi Everyone!

I am in the process of refinishing a dining table and chairs which I plan on painting cream/beige (once I get through all of the layers of paint and varnish!). I've been doing some research on the best way to paint and finish and I've managed to confuse myself!

Some places recommend using a finishing wax after painting to add durability. But I wonder if it really does add durability or if people just use it to add a more antique or distressed look? As it stands I'm not planning on "distressing" the furniture but durability is very important to me and I want to do whatever will make the finish the hardiest.

My painting plan is to use two coats of primer & undercoat (in one) and then another two coats of high quality (Laura Ashley or Farrow & Ball) eggshell paint, lightly sanding between coats.

I am a newbie to this so I am open to any and all expertise you may have!

Thanks!
Emily

 

[Robbie uk]

If your going to be painting the furniture then finishing wax wont be of any use. It really needs to be applied over wood that has been stripped or stained. This can be buffed up to give a nice lustre.
Pinting in eggshell or similar is a finish in itself and applying wax wont make it any different. The wax will stay on top of the paint.

 

[dcdec]

I'm wondering if you could apply a clear varnish over the top of the paint. You'd have to be careful about what finish/sheen the varnish gives but may be worth looking into.
The best thing to do with questions like this is to experiment on off cuts or scrap timber