Advice for painting some pine wood ...

TUS

We have a pine wood bed frame which is currently varnished but not in great condition. What I'd like to do is sand it down, prime it, paint it silver and varnish.

My question is - does it matter what type of paint I use if I am properly priming and varnishing?

Could I use a matt emulsion for example which is a lot more cost effective - http://www.homebase.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?langId=110&storeId=10151&partNumber=115696

nickj_2

the best primer for varnished surfaces is zinsser bin primer , it may cost a bit more but will do a good job , i personally wouldn't use emulsion , it won't stick to varnish
http://zinsseruk.com/shop/Product.aspx?cId=130&pgId=354

ormus

if youre using water based paint then you will have to sand the wood down properly to remove all the varnish.
with oil based paint, a light/medium sanding is all thats required.
much easier.

TUS

What about spray painting? Does the way I need to prepare the wood change for spray paint? i.e. - how much do I need to sand down?

Thanks.