[EastexToolJunky]

I turned a bowl from a oak burl blank I had sitting for a year. I sanded it through the grits up to 800.

I would like to know what finish would be best. I use Danish oil on just about everything, but I have Wipe on poly, Waterlox, and formbys tung oil finish. I don't want it to get real dark or shiny. Any advice?

 

[Steve Neul]

The wood is light enough you might want to consider the finish yellowing. The wipe on poly and the tung oil finish will yellow as it ages. The waterlox finish would remain clear. You could also use a water based polyurethane or a cab acrylic lacquer or a pre-catalyzed lacquer. The water based poly as well as the lacquers would be better sprayed.

 

[Lilty]

Some BLO would look good.

 

[EastexToolJunky]

Anyone have an issue with watco Danish oil turning yellow. I use it a lot, but none of my stuff is over 2 years old.

 

[Bonanza35]

If you don't want it to darken or have a shine then all you need is a little surface protection. Maybe just a quick buff with some some wax would suffice. Otherwise you could use any of those options with a very light application. Just lightly damped a rag and give it a quick once over and call it good. IMHO that's all you need for a purely decorative piece. Nice bowl!

 

[EastexToolJunky]

Thanks. I like all of the feedback. I think I'll start with a little of my favorite finish then use some matte lacquer as a top coat. That will give it a little more durability without darkening too much. I still want some contrast that oil will bring out.