Are you looking to refurbish your bookcase? Adding a lick of paint creates a new visual dynamic to any room. Here are our top choices for the best paint finish for your bookcase.
The 2 Best Paint Finishes for Bookcases
1. Retique It Chalk Furniture Paint by Renaissance
This chalk paint from Retique gives your bookcase a rustic finish with a “chalky” appearance that’s eye-pleasing and smooth to the touch. You get superior coverage, and the pain builds on itself, allowing for a textured finish.
This paint comes with a low-VOC formulation and a 30-minute drying time with no smell during drying. The versatile use of this paint makes it ideal for refurbishing distressed old wood or contemporary style bookcases.
Pros
- 44 colors available.
- Easy to build on coats.
- Smooth finish and easy cleanup.
Cons
- Less durable than oil-based or latex-based formulations.
- Only suitable for wood.
Summary
If you’re looking to give your bookcase a vintage look, paint it with this chalk paint. You get a smooth finish with easy painting and cleanup.
2. Majic Paints Interior/Exterior Satin Paint
This semi-gloss enamel paint has a water-based formulation for ultimate durability and easy cleanup. This self-leveling paint dries to a smooth glossy finish that’s striking, and the diamond finish offers excellent scratch and chipping resistance.
You can paint right away; there’s no sanding or priming required when preparing the surface for paint. This paint adheres to any materials, from steel to plastics and wood. This paint has superior color retention and won’t fade while providing a smooth, gliding surface for the bookcase.
Pros
- Ten colors are available.
- Smooth satin finish.
- Self-leveling.
- Ideal for use on all materials.
Cons
- You don’t get the vintage look of chalk paint.
Summary
Choose Majic if you’re looking for durable paint for your bookcase. The gloss enamel is suitable for use on almost all materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best paint finish for wood furniture?
A: We recommend going with a semi-gloss or satin finish for your bookshelf if you’re looking for a classic look and durability. Chalk-based paints are a great choice for bookshelves, giving you a rustic and vintage look.
Q: What kind of paint do you use on shelves?
A: We recommend going for latex-based or water-based paint formulations when painting your bookcase. Latex paints are easier to work with and affordable, but you won’t get the same durability as you get with oil-based formulations.
Q: Can you paint bookcases?
A: Paint helps you dress up particleboard or solid wood shelves, giving them a modern, playful look. Wood requires preparation before painting because the material absorbs paint. Remove the hardware from the bookcase, and sand it to prepare it for paint.
Q: What finish should you paint furniture?
A: You can find furniture paint available in the following formulations.
- Oil Paint – Durable, but high-cost. High VOCs and difficult to clean up.
- Acrylic Paint – Water-based paint providing rich colors and a smooth finish.
- Milky and Chalky Paint provides a vintage, rustic look, available in water-based and latex formulations.
- Latex Paint – Affordable and widely available.