I bought this unfinished mantel to stain. On the front of the mantel, there was something shiny on the wood, and it wouldn't accept stain. I've tried sanding the areas, but it still won't accept the stain as the rest of the piece does. I'd give it 5 stars for the piece itself - it's a nice, substantial mantel, but I was disappointed by whatever was on the mantel that prevented it from staining evenly.