Painting MDF - durability as a work surface?

[brettjbuckley]

I want to construct a new custom shaped work surface from a large piece of MDF.

What kind of primer / paint should I use for a smooth matt finish with less likelihood of scratching, peeling and wearing? The surface will act as a PC desk and so must withstand the mouse and such!

 

[Scrit]

Whatever you put on it will be the deciding factor. If you require the sort of durability you'll get with a kitchen worktop or the like it simply won't happen, so unless you can spray something like an acid-catalysed finish the choice will be between a floor lacquer (such as Dulux Diamond Glaze), a melamine varnish (such as Rustin's or Chestnut) or a paint. In any case the MDF should be thoroughly sealed with MDF sealant before hand so that all the finish isn't just sucked up like ink on blotting paper - 2 or more coats on the surface, 4 to 6 coats on the edges and flat back between coats with a Scotch grey (abrasive) pad.

Scrit