I have a question about paint...Its a bit of a worry too, please help.?

My dad painted some shelves in my bedroom, creamy magnolia.
I lifted something off the shelf the otherday and a fine, white dust powder had settled there. I didnt really think muck of it at the time, just wiped it down and left it. A few days later I did the same thing and the powder was back......Does anyone know what this is? Is is poisonous or toxic???. It smell funny too?
Any advice as to what is is would be great.

Answers:
I normally wouldn't think anything of having to dust shelves. But if it has an odd smell, you might want to mention it to your dad.

What kind of paint did he use? Is dust coming in from an open window?

If you don't want to go through the trouble of removing the old paint and repainting, perhaps you can apply a clear sealant or laquer.

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