Finishing my Cantilever Coffee Table

So I purchased all my wood (from Earth Source Wood and MacBeath in San Francisco) and set to work putting together my cantilever coffee table. I had no major problems using my new Festool plunge saw and multi-function table to piece together the table top. The planing was a learning experience though (see my previous post). All in all, I was happy with my end result.

So the next step was putting a finish on the walnut and poplar. I found this great guide online on how to apply oil finishes: http://www.wwch.org/Technique/Finishes/OilFin.htm. It explains that the object of finishing is: 1) Seal the wood; 2) Fill open pores and grain; and 3) Make it lustrous, without a notable surface film. It then goes on to give step-by-step instructions on how to apply an oil finish and a wax coat. I basically followed these instructions in finishing my coffee table.

Applying Oil Finish

Instead of using the Watco danish oil, however, I used General Finishes danish oil natural. A pint was all I needed. I did use the Watco Satin Wax (dark for the walnut and natural for the poplar) and it definitely leaves a nice final polish.

Watco Satin Wax

All in all, I was very satisfied with the finish.