RE: Help--I want to paint a wood table and chairs set--need info!
Ok Two part question so two part answer.
Part one- Depending on the look you are going for you can use a latex paint or a water-based stain (easier clean up, less fumes than oil-based). The stains come in billions of different colors. If you want a long wearing (ETA- easy to clean) finish add a few coats of a water based "polyurethane". The difference between paint or stain is basically weather or not you want to see the grain of the wood. Stains tend to be more subtle, with grain showing. So, once you decide the look you are going for, I recommend talking to the people at your local "naked" furniture place. They can be a huge help but tend to go the stain route vs. paint.
Part two- You really need to remove the lacquer finish to change the color. You can simply sand it, but it maybe easier to go the chemical stripper route. Especially if you can take the easel apart. Personally, if I couldn't take the easel apart I wouldn't bother trying to change the color.
I can't wait to do this project for DD (need to wait for the crib to go since the room is small first). Post pictures when you are done so we can see the results. Good luck and have fun.
Veronica
Miss Ellie 11/03
Baby Audrey 4/08