Bob wrote in news
Hi,

Have a piece of red oak, perhaps 12 x 12 x 3/4 which I put a few holes
into to mount a small circular barometer.

Wood has a beautiful grain, that I would always like to see.

Several folks at HD and Lowe's said the "best" way to finish it off,
and still be able to see the grain, is a clear Min Wax Poly Urethane.

Do you agree ?
Or,...?

If the clear Polyurethane, what's the best way of applying it, please
?

A piece of cloth from an old T Shirt ?
My finger ?
A really high quality brush ?
A cheap brush ?
One of those throw away foam brushes ?
Or ?

One coat enough ?
If not, how to handle; sand after dry, and then apply another ?

I'm really a novice at wood finishing, and would be very appreciative
for any hints.

Thanks,
Bob

Hi,

I had my entire upstairs done in 3/4" x 2 1/4" red oak two years ago.
It's a beautiful (my favorite) wood.

I used a water based sealer, and a clear satin finish on top. This
reall brought out the warm qualities of the wood, without darkening or
giving a plastic finish look.

I used Bona products. Here's the satin finish.

https://postimg.org/image/hlb8gmwbd/

Of course, it depends on how your unfinished wood looks.