Chalk Paint

Fine wire wool in the direction of the grain

Can you paint each section flat?

If you sand it you probably need to wax it first to reduce the dust [not if you're planning to eggshell it, though]. Then I'd get some Annie Sloan chalk paint. I do use Rustoleum but Annie Sloan is still the best and easiest to use.

I once asked a decorator what he knew about using chalk paint.
He said he knew enough not to use it.

Thanks S.C. that sounds like a plan. I thought this was going to be a quick makeover, we live and learn.

On advice from the stockist, we watered down our paint. It’s too gloopy otherwise. Looking at a randomly selected site online, it says to rub over with fine sandpaper after the final coat has dried, then wax.

Do you think a really fine grade of sandpaper would take too much paint off?

It might be worth trying, if you really don't like the finish, to see if it would smooth down a bit.

I wish I handn’t now, I like the dull flat finish but not the roughness and paint brush marks. Yes, there is wax to protect it but loath to use this as would be impossible to paint over.

I don't like the finish of chalk paint so wouldn't use it.

Aren’t you supposed to have a rough finish with chalk paints? Also use some wax after the paint to seal it?