I'm trying to coat a piece of manufactured furniture with a clear coat. I've tried spray polyurethane which goes on smooth, but doesn't hold to the surface (peels off with fingernail). I then tried shellac, however, it beads up. The only way to get a smooth surface is to spray enough to create a thick puddle. The same beading happens if I try water based urethane (Varethane). I'm wondering if anyone would have any idea what this piece of furniture is covered with that would cause these three different clear coats to behave the way they do.
Thanks, Harry
P.S. This piece of furniture is made by Ameriwood, covered in wood print veneer (the thin, non water proof kind). It's brand new.