Repainting an old wardrobe?

Question

We "inherited" an old wardrobe, though I have no idea how old it is. Double doors, mirrored on the outside, and a hanger rod inside. The bottom needs repairing or replacing, as it has fallen through. My husband coated it about 3 years ago with grey primer, and never finished it. I think it's high time we got the job done! Here are my questions:

Do I need to do a second coat of primer since it's been so long?

What kind of paint is best to use on a piece of furniture (it really has no intrinsic value, but will make extra storage for us)?

How many coats of paint?

Do I need to put something over the paint when I'm done to seal it?

Answer 1

If the first coat of primer has good coverage (you cannot see the old paint through it), you do not need another coat.  You can use regular latex paint over that.  I like to use at least 2 coats of latex for color saturation, durability and longevity.  You can use a sealer, but mainly just to make the piece easier to keep clean.  If you decide to seal it, use a non-yellowing, UVB/UVA protecting sealer like Varathane and it should only take one coat.