WHAT DOES A SEALER EVEN DO?A sealer, which may also be called a topcoat, simply protects your beautiful paint finish from stains, scratches, chips, and scuffs.
HOW TO SEAL PAINTED FURNITURE-carefully read the instructions on your sealer-make sure to stir it thoroughly; do not shake-using multiple thin, even coats-if you use a brush to apply furniture sealer, brush it on in long, even strokes-a paint sprayer is a great way to get a flawless finish
WHICH FURNITURE SEALERS ARE THE BEST?MINWAX POLYCRYLICVerdict: not as easy to work with as General Finishes sealers. But, it is cheaper and easily found at home improvement stores, so it wins as far as convenience.
MINWAX POLYURETHANEVerdict: inexpensive and conveniently available locally. Not a good topcoat for painted furniture because it yellows and affects the appearance of the paint color.
FURNITURE WAXVerdict: more difficult to apply than other sealers, yet it isn’t as long-lasting. Of the furniture waxes I have used, Annie Sloan was by far my favorite.
GENERAL FINISHES FLAT OUT FLATVerdict: my favorite sealer for distressed furniture or any furniture you want to have a vintage feel. It's also my favorite to use over chalk paint. Easy to apply and gives a beautiful flat finish.
GENERAL FINISHES HIGH PERFORMANCE TOP COATMy number one pick for a great all-around sealer. Easy to apply, holds up well, and works well over all kinds of paint and stain.
DIXIE BELLE GATOR HIDEI haven’t personally had a chance to try Gator Hide yet, but had to include it because it comes so highly recommended by other bloggers and furniture painters.