Pick the right paint

Painting furniture with a typical latex wall paint can produce "block." That happens when objects stick to painted surfaces, such as shelves, because the paint remains soft even after it dries. Instead, use acrylic latex trim enamel for added durability. For a smooth finish and easier brushing, include an additive such as Floetrol to slow drying time and allow brush marks, like those shown, to level off.

Professional finishing expert Jeff Jewitt usually adds one part Floetrol to 10 parts of paint, equal to about 3 oz. Floetrol per quart of paint. Mix it with the paint in a separate container rather than adding it directly to the original can.