I just tried the same thing with a settee I picked up on CL. It looked great, but it was too low. The bed extenders would work, but probably wouldn't look too good. We have kids and I thought the settee would work but the fabric was gross within a few days. I think you could make it work, but it really isn't ideal. Along that line though, we switched out the settee and use the bench that was in the hallway in the kitchen. It's a tad higher, and easier to get in and out of. I covered the cushion on the top of the bench with an waterproof fabric which is holding up OK, and will be easy to replace when the time comes. Just another option to consider - HTH!

I think the fact that Annie has pieces in her home in England that were painted with Chalk Paint� over 20 years ago and they still are in daily use is a good testimonial. I have pieces that get moved constantly from show to show to show and if they get smudged or dropped from the truck I take a bit of clear wax and wipe one, wipe off...instant fix. Table tops are different. I still use and advise wax, but in a house with constant use, small children, etc, I would advise the Annie Sloan Lacquer which is different than poly. It soaks into the paint. I think it and roll it on for a great seal. But like ALL hand painted pieces, I treat them with care. Here is a link that might be useful: 3 Oaks Studio

It sounds as if you are sold on the more inexpensive chairs. If so, please read this seller's ratings before you purchase, and try to find the chairs at another retailer. The feedback is 1.98 out of 10! It sounds like a nightmare retailer. I'd hate to see you out your money, and left with junk. http://www.resellerratings.com/store/GreatFurnitureDeal 2nd, I hope nini does not mind me sharing her gorgeous dining room, but I wanted to show you just how great and fresh Chippendale chairs, like those jlc712 has, can look. I myself have 6 of these chairs and table in solid cherry in our storage unit from my parent's home. You can easily find sets like these at estate sales or craigslist. Nini's dining room: http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/2692079/our-new-house-is-finished-my-white-kitchen

Thank you, prepmom. They do get a bit dirty but it's not really noticeable unless you're looking closely. Only 1 end chair gets regular use by DH, so I switch them out once in awhile. If he's particularly grungy from working outside I throw a sheet or towel over the chair if I'm around to catch him before he sits down! I take them to the dry cleaners every 6 months or so, but have them wet clean them because drycleaning didn't seem to help with some stains. I think I'm going to start cleaning them myself, starting with an Oxy soak in the bathtub, and maybe just take them in for pressing if needed. I hate ironing! Here's another view that shows the side chairs better. They have lines similar to one of your choices. Those slips wash easily in my washer and dryer and still look new after several years. All the fabric is ivory linen.