This article presents findings of experiments designed to determine if water-based latex varnishes are good enough to use on a valuable piece of furniture. The main reasons for using water-based products is that they are less toxic. Water-based varnishes consist of a solution of film-forming polymers (usually acrylic resins) dispersed in a carrying medium of water. When the water evaporates, the dispersed polymer particles coalesce to form a coherent, protective acrylic film. Five products were tested, using two coats on pine, walnut, and mahogany boards. Major differences in viscosity affected how easily the products were applied. In general, the water-based varnishes performed satisfactorily, and it was impossible to distinguish the better ones from conventional varnish finishes. Sears Latex and Wood Armor did not perform satisfactorily. The better products seem as tough as ordinary varnish, but damage was produced by several durability tests. The author still prefers conventional lacquer or varnish.