When working with any open grained wood, my experience has taught me that if I apply a polymerized type oil, such as "Daly's Profin, I apply it with 600 grit wet/dry paper and the slurry that develops with rubbing action fills the open pores nicely, I put on enough finish so that after getting a good rub in, I can wipe up the access across grain using paper towels. After the first coat dries, I use a 800 grit or 0000 grade steel wool or a white nylon the finishing pad to smooth the first coat of oil, then add a second coat with a rag. After the second coat dries, I generally stick with the white nylon rubbing pad, this even out any imperfections in the previous coat. Rag on a third cat, moving in one direction only. Be sure to make ample use of tack rags between coats. The third and final coat doesn't require a rub out, but you could apply a high grade rubbing wax and buff with an electric car buffing pad foe the ultimate shine. The Daly products are available in both a Satin and high gloss. The product is available in most high quality finishing stores, it is manufactured in the Seattle, Washington area.
Steve Tibbetts
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