On Tue, 16 Aug 2005 09:01:39 +0100, thebunuk
wrote:

Is this just the nature of the wood, or is there any way I can seal it
and keep the light colour?

A water-based product will be lighter than most other varnishes. Some
darkening is inevitable.

BY FAR the best product to use is Rustin's Floorcoat. It's acid
catalysed (you mix in a little pot of goop before starting) and _stinks_
when using it, but this goes away completely after a few hours. It is
harder, better looking and much longer lasting than the competition. Use
3 coats. Lesser varnishes may want more coats.