Transforming a Grandfather Clock to colorful whimsical clock

I am considering transforming an old grandfather (6'+ tall) clock, which is all wood finish into one with different parts painted in different colors. A transition to whimsical.  I am new to transforming something so drastically.  If I am looking at colors outside of traditional wood tones, so yellow, green, red, blue, purple event, what type of products I might even consider? Are there Rustoleum wood stain products in these colors? Does chalk or other paint work better to give solid color vs. overlay tone? Are non-gloss products better? What needs to be done to prepare the wood? I would love your wisdom, expertise and recommendations. Thank you in advance. Elizabeth