Reply by OSU55

I would use satin or matte poly or lacquer. I sprayed about 30 trunk cookies 12-14” dia with matte lacquer, “heavy” coats allowing it to soak in, spray again, again, etc. I dried them for several months before spraying. They looked very natural. Cant speak too well for longevity – they were table settings for a wedding and held together well for that. Relatives kept most of them – will have too if bark held. A lot came off when the wood dried, which was ok for me.

To keep the bark on, whether the wood is dry or not, soak it with thin CA glue. This will leave a shiny finish. After the wood is dry, use the satin or matte finish over it for the sheen reduction as well as protection.