[bigblockyeti]

I'm almost ready for finish on a live edge votive holder I made. I'm looking for a non-glossy finish that is wax resistant so any wax from the candles can be easily peeled off without making a mess or damaging the finish. I thought about BLO, but quickly dismissed that as fire and fuel don't typically mix well on a dining room table. It would be great if it would help seal and retain the bark too. I'm also torn about whether or not to radius the edges of the votive holes. I like the look of the sharp edge, but sharp edges are more susceptible to damage through everyday handling, I like the form but want to make sure function is a part of design. I'm also debating whether or not to fill the many small voids (bug damage?) between the bark and the sapwood too. Any thoughts, comments or critiques would be welcome.

 

[GregInMaryland]

Hey, nice job.

Easing the holes probably would be a good idea, both functionality and aesthetically.

I don't know the best finish to recommend, especially on the bark. However, I would not be so quick to discount BLO. Once it is cured, it is no more a hazard than any other finish. Yes, there are all sorts of hazards with BLO and all sorts of other finishes, but that is in the uncured state. Once the finish is cured, the wood in the piece will be more of a hazard than the finish.

In any case, you should do a test piece and see what you think.

Cheers!