I did mine with the self adhesive backed burl I purchased from Ebay and was very happy with the results. I too just left the old on and used silicone polish remover to get all the old armour all etc residue off. Stuck like Sh!t to a blanket. I like the less glossy look and will be doing the dash piece this winter to match, altho one has to look pretty closely to tell there is a diff.

I like Vicky's idea of real burl veneer. I have worked with veneers before building stereo speakers in my younger days...very satisfying ...may just try it on a console!