This one is made entirely of Walnut and Cherry so it will get only a coat of Shellac then poly. The painted ones look nice too. This project takes a lot of wood, and I mean a lot! I'll have almost $50 in wood on this project. The pattern says you can use MDF, but I don't think it would be good. Lots of primer and painting. If I make one to paint, I'll probably use Aspen wood, cheap but solid. We'll see. This will be pretty cool when it's done, hopefully by tomorrow and ready for my next show this Sunday the 28th.
Tommy T