Mr Matt and Mr Gloss

Try Mr. Ronseal One Coat Melamine & MDF Paint White 750ml


http://www.diy.com/nav/decor/paint-...MDF-Paint-White-750ml-9253590?noCookies=false

 

Something I have done on kitchen shelves made of melamine that used to mark badly when stainless steel coffee tea etc jars were stored there, is to cut 2mm acrylic sheet from Wickes or Homebase to fit on top.
A couple of bits of double sided selotape holds the sheets in place to stop them sliding off and they are almost invisible in use.

 

I think you mean Mr acrylic sheets from Mrs Wickes

 

Iceman, the finish you get on manufactured kitchens is 'melamine', a very tough and durable plastic material. I don't know of any paint that'll match that, certainly not any 'conventional' paint.

The supposed substitute linked to above sounds good but has very disappointing reviews. It might still be your best bet, tho'.

Other than that, I reckon you should be looking at 'satin' or 'eggshell' finishes which might not be quite as durable as gloss, but will look a lot better when scuffed! You don't want any paint that's designed for walls - they just won't be up to the job. You should be looking at finishes for timber, and known brand products such as Diamond Hard (is that Dulux or Ronseal?!)

But, if this is for the insides of kitchen cupboards, they are going to get mighty scuffed in use.

One possible solution is epoxy paint, which is '2-part' and sets chemically. It will certainly be a lot tougher than ordinary paints, but ain't cheap.

If it's for the insides of units, then apply with a mini foam roller - rotating slowly and finishing lightly so as not to create bubbles. You should be able to get a very fine, even textured finish.

 

Once you've done the usual prep work, wash, rinse and lightly sand, I'd recommend coating the mdf with Zinsser Covestain, followed by two coats of Little Green Oil Eggshell. Lovely finish and very durable.