paint question for Pigletjohn or other experts

[Regularhiding]

I started painting a desk thing ( it's for a friend who has a beauty salon for painting clients nails ) in Annie Sloan chalk paint because it claimed on the tin that the paint , once wax applied was a very tough surface suitable for work tops.
it says that on the wax tin!

Numerous internet sources have revealed this to be false. I have also read that acetone splashes as used by the nail technician will lift the wax.

I haven't waxed it yet.

what would you recommend as a topcoat ( ie over the chalk paint ) that is hard wearing and looks good ? or could I just use varnish?

I have had success with Ronseal one coat melamine cupboard paint. would that work?

or do. I need to remove all the chalk paint?

thank you

Annie Sloan chalk paint can be used outside but the instructions state it should not be waxed when used outside - it says water/rain can get under the wax and damage the finish. I would imagine without the wax it naturally weathers and fades.

I have used Annie Sloan on furniture but i don't find it particularly hardwearing without wax, for salon use I would have a glass top made.

I have repainted items without removing chalk paint.

Hope PJ comes along soon.

I have no knowledge of chalk paint. I am amazed that anyone would recommend painting a worktop. I imagine acetone would attack any paint, varnish or wax.

Laminate might stand up to it.

Thanks folks.
I went ahead with the chalk paint ( 4 coats !) sanded it smooth and applied the wax.
It actually looks pretty good. Apparently the wax cures the paint underneath.
I don't know how robust it will be .

Try using one of those clear acetate desk top protectors.

Amazon and Ikea do them.

I thought the glass protector sounded a very good idea, they are especially popular in parts of London. It would resist the acetone, which I think plastic would not. If you ask a glazier to cut a piece, get 6mm and say it is essential that the edges are polished smooth (not all glass suppliers off the service)

The glass top is the way to go - what size is the desk? Tempered glass can be expensive, but IKEA do glass tops for some of the Malm range of bedroom furniture which would work out very much cheaper.

thanks again.
the glass top wouldn't need to be specially made as it is a very odd shaped desk.
so far so good with what I have done so far