painting question help?

It sounds like you were applying the gloss coat too thick which will make it run. You need to wait for the paint to dry at this point to sand down the runs before applying your second coat. Apply thinner coats and make sure that your brush is not dripping with paint. Don't try to cover the surface in one heavy coat.

In my opinion it is always a good idea to put at least two coats of paint on anything, especially furniture as it will last longer and look better. Do not apply a lot of paint to try to save time, by using one thick coat. It will take forever to dry, look "runny" or clumpy, and be prone to chips with just a bump from a vacuum, or something falling on it.

Though, you will have to wait longer than 2 hours before applying the second coat, as you would want to make sure the first coat is completely dry. And since it is gloss you will also have to lightly sand the first coat so the second coat will have something to cling/stick to because it will just run right off, and look worse.

Perhaps that's what happened with the primer, making it look "runny" that you put too much paint over it. It also depends on what color the dressers were before, and the color and type of primer used to make sure you get best results

Still, for it to not look "runny" which I'm not too sure what you mean by that, a light sanding between coats should make it look nice after applying the finishing coat.

I would also recommend applying a non-yellowing varnish over the paint for a really nice look that will withstand some bumps and dings along the way, that can chip or scratch the paint, after you've done all that work. It will be well worth the extra time it takes, and your piece will last much longer and look better too.

Also weather conditions (heat, humidity, esp.) are to be taken into considerations for drying times. Humid conditions take longer, dry of course, is ideal. Do not put thick coats of gloss paint, because it will take forever to dry in any conditions. Two light coats, plus the primer should do the job, if you have good paint.

Anytime you rush through something like this, will make the job look worse or not last, and you will have to spend more time fixing it later, like what is happening now to you. Thin coats, let them dry fully (longer than the recommendation on the can is ideal too), for a flawless finish.

Good luck and hope I've helped and didn't overwhelm/disappoint you more. Waiting a day between coats will save you days of regrets, trust me.