This piece screamed for layers and more layers. So... I began with the front of the dresser applying Holiday Red, and added layers of Lamp Black and Patina. Then, I distressed it in order to let some of the original wood shine through. The top was given a nice sheen of Java Gel and I used High Performance Satin Poly over the entire piece. OH and how could I forget "It's all about the knobs" too. I added four glass knobs and left two of the original knobs on the bottom drawers.