Crafters! What kind of paint do I use?

[Sew So Happy]

With all the toy recalls this past year, we are trying to go another route for Christmas with our 18 month old. I am recycling an old table and yard sale chairs. I also found a small baby bed made of wood also. I am going to make a pillow and bedding for it. My dh has already sanded and put a base coat of white paint on everything. I want these items to look like those expensive kids furniture that is painted with cute designs. What kind of paint do I use? Do I just use that acrylic paint you buy at Walmart in the craft section? Do I have to cover that with another layer of something else?
Of course, I need to squeeze this before Christmas, so if anyone has any ideas of designs that are easy, please share them!:)