What's the best topcoat for acrylic painted wood?

Hi there! Looking for some advice as I'm nearing the end of my wood desk remodel (which has taken longer than expected and learned a lot lol). The surface of the desk and drawers are done as I've restrained and sealed. I painted the base of the desk with black acrylic paint. I bought polyacrylic for my topcoat however have been reading some pretty negative things about streaking, therefore, i am hesitant to apply it. Any recommendations on what would be best to use for the topcoat and the best way to apply it? I've already went through 2 different paints, 2 different stains, and a ton of sanding to get here and really don't want another set back if you know what I mean! Appreciate any feedback you may have!

  4 answers
  • Hi Jennifer,


    I do not have a recommendation for top coat, however, I can give some advice on dealing with streaky paint. We have used the cabinet enamel by Valspar ( here is a link to my review) and that paint also has poor reviews for streaking. My suggestion for working with products that streak is this... Apply in thin coats and work quickly.


    The streaking comes from having heavy layers of paint on a surface that doesn't absorb the excess paint. We found to eliminate the streaks, the best approach was to apply multiple thin layers. The first layer will look TERRIBLE... but keep going. It will get better. Additionally, the surface area we were working with was quite large and allowed for some drying time (maybe several minutes) in between coats. If you are working in a small space, I would let the product sit for a minute or two before applying the next thin coat.


    I hope this helps! Cheers! Lauren - The Little Lake Cottage

  • K. Rupp K. Rupp on May 15, 2019

    I have heard General Finishes topcoat is really great stuff! I haven't used it yet but that is what I would use after putting so much time and effort into a piece of furniture.

  • Megan Megan on May 15, 2019

    I would recommend General Finishes high performance top coat!

  • Jennifer Holt Main Jennifer Holt Main on May 15, 2019

    Thanks everyone. I used the General Finishes gel stain in mahogany and their gel topcoat for the surface of the desk and the drawers and loved the product!! I do have plenty of gel topcoat left but a little worried about using it on the black acrylic base as I know it can amber. Hmmmm... use the gel or another trip to the store lol (which of course is 30 minutes away)? Thoughts?