Safe finish for quilt ladder
 

I am painting an old ladder with a whitewash finish (1 part paint, 1 part water). I will hang quilts on it. Since the paint is thin, I should probably put a finish over it. I don't care for poly and thought about wax. Would paste wax, like Renaissance or something similar, be safe for fabrics?

According to this article, Renaissance wax is acid-free and would be safe, however most other waxes would not be safe for fabrics.

you can always buy some acid free quilt paper quilters use when storing quilts. just place over the rails.

have you checked into what kinds of poly finish are available? I know some come in different finished. I had my floors done in a "matte" finish rather than a "shinny" one. I know I had a choice between 3-4 different kinds of finishes for the poly urethane coating on my wood floor.

That's interesting Sewingpup. I knew there was a shiny and sort of satin finish. I had no idea there were 3 or 4 different finished in poly urethane. I like it as a finishing coat because it is very hard and durable.

My friend cut up pool noodles and placed them on the rungs underneath the quilts. I thought this was brilliant because it seems like the quilts hang nicer.

Thanks for the idea Peckish! That sounds like a wonderful idea.

Thanks, now that I think about it, my container of Renaissance is pretty small and wouldn't go far. Good to know that about other waxes.

I have some pool noodles, might give that a try.

Yes, I know there are several poly finishes. I just don't like the plasticy look, but I could use the wipe-on oil based poly, I heard it gives a more natural look. I could try some on a rung and see what it looks like. Thanks