We like acrylic paint because it's thick and bold. If some of the color gets absorbed into the wood, you still have a nice color when it dries. You could use chalk paint, if you wanted. But, chalk paint is more expensive. For a larger project, like a shabby chic dresser, chalk paint is worth the price because it looks more weathered. But, for a small project like this where you are distressing it to add a little texture, not for a farmhouse look, acrylic paint is the way to go.