I am within a few days of having my workbench construction completed. The
top is constructed of 2 solid wood doors laminated together and faced with
oak ply and a full 1/2 X 6 inch oak apron, The base is constructed of
construction grade pine with 3/4 oak ply for the cabinet doors and side
panel inserts.

Hoping for some suggestions on what finish to use when I reach that point.
I would like to stain the entire project with minwax golden oak as we have
used it around the house and like the appearance. I need the top to be
water resistant so when I spill my drink or worse it won't soak into the
wood before I can wipe it up. I would also like easy glue cleanup, etc. I
have seen recommendations for poly, tung oil and boiled linseed oil. Will
the oils go over the stain? Are they water resistant? Should I finish my
base differently from my top? What about Spar urethane varnish over the
stain vs. the oils? Is stain even recommended? When folks refer to wipe on
poly, does this mean wiping on with a rag or a brush?

How about some of you seasoned experts giving a newbie some good advice. I
have worked long and hard on this project and want it to look nice when I'm
done. And yes, I know it won't stay looking nice for long, but I just want
it to look good for some pictures before I mess it up :~) I'll post some
pictures in ABW when I am done if I can get some help from y'all reaching
that point :~)

Many thanks in advance for any input I can get.

Bob N