lacquer for painted mdf boxes?

[fathertobe]

Hi,

I've made some large mdf boxes which I've primed, painted (eggshell) in a variety of colours. They slide into a large cubby holes (contain toys in the main ... sigh). The bottoms are covered in felt to make them slide more easily.

I've noticed that the painted finish scratches/marks easily when sliding - both the boxes themselves and the cubby holes and wondered if I could lacquer the boxes in any way to protect the finish.

Has anyone got a suitable suggestion of a product to use? Be as specific as you can!

Many thanks.

 

[jamie01]

Hi,

I have the same problem with some work i have done!!
have you worked out how to do it? as i have painted a shelf in the same way but dont know what to put overthe top

 

[fathertobe]

http://www.designercolours.com/products/9-Polyvine/PO_AV-Polyvine_Protective_Decorators_Varnish

I've tried the above on one side as a test. Here's what I've found out:

1) It's also available in oil version - used the water-based stuff on the basis that I generally avoid oil-based products (though they're tougher).
2) Applied it with a brush - which means you can see light brush marks - not sure about roller - it seems to dissuade people from using this but not sure why. Would prefer roller application as the paint was done with this and I don't want to see brush marks.
3) Where it went on a bit thickly, you can see it - so be careful to keep it very even. Otherwise it seems to dry with a bit of a mist. As I said, I've tried it on an inconspicuous side so I'll be more careful with visible bits.

I'm going to probably do a bit more at some point today - if it stops raining! - so will update. Will probably try a roller. No doubt someone will soon be on here to tell me I've used something totally unsuitable ...

Got it from a local Leyland shop.

 

[Nige F]

Totally Unsuitable * BUT ideal for the lady childminder who wants to do her walls (* not really )