This is an additional comment. I've had this desk for a year and had left the finish as delivered as was unsure of what, if
anything, I wanted to do with it. I decided to paint or stain everything but the flat top. A quick trip to the store where chalk painting was recommended. So incredibly easy ! No sanding, no preparation. 8 oz chalk paint more than sufficient and only other material needed was a brush. To anyone who may be considering chalk painting....go for it