[cabinetman]

From the looks of the wood it appears to be Maple. I would use a conditioner first. Then, you could use a 50/50 mix of boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits as a wipe on and wipe off. That will bring some life to the color and grain. You could then just use a wiping varnish, which is just a thinned version of an oil base varnish or oil base polyurethane and mineral spirits.

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[cabinetman]

Cabinetman - thank you for the help! I had asked my mom if she remembered what these were and she said she thought they were either maple or oak so you're probably onto something there. I do know they are porous. My ex-husband had sanded them once before and stained them and they took in the stain very quickly and evenly. He never did a protective coat over them, though, and they've just felt dry and "flat" all these years later. Fortunately, they are still in terrific shape and I am hoping to bring a little life to them and keep them protected for many years to come. If I tackle this project successfully, I am going to reward (punish) myself with the daunting task of sanding and refinishing an old wooden rocking chair next. :huh:

Could you post a better picture of the top. The angle of your photo didn't provide a good look. If it is Oak, it would not need any conditioner.

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[cabinetman]

It sound as though knowing what the wood type is determines the best course of action in finishing them.

That's true.

By the way - I'm not opposed to NOT staining them and just finishing them as is. I am looking for the best way to finish them that will capture their natural beauty. I really love the way they look right now - they're beautiful! - but definitely want to seal them. I am simply not good with anything in a spray can.

With whatever experience you have, a wipe on finish will be the easiest to apply, and you don't have to buy any equipment that you may not ever use later.

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[cabinetman]

Here are a few more photos that may help in identifying the wood. I'm not sure I'll make a hobby of woodworking/refinishing so I don't know about getting a compressor. However, if this project goes well for me, I may try out some more! (The more yellow photo is with the flash on.)

It's Maple.:yes:

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[cabinetman]

This project is complete! I've posted a public album on my Facebook page but wanted to share a photo here as well. Thanks for the advice! I'm moving on to my next project!

https://www.facebook.com/stacy.oaks...28153963884.1073741839.100000201158265&type=3

Now that looks right nice. Great work.

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