How to protect unfinished reclaimed wood pine table

Hello,

I bought a table at restoration Hardware (http://www.restorationhardware.com/c...ryId=cat500016) that is unfinished pine and would like to protect it from spill, marks, etc..

I read in one of the post of the forum that using clear gel paste varnish (bartley was recommended brand). Is this still the recommended method? For people who have used, any tips, gotcha you wish you had known? How much much varnish do I need to buy for a table up to 120"L x 38"D x 30"H. Also, it seems that Bartley has been discontinued. Any other brand recommended?

Thanks,

Yves.

Any kind of wiping, poly paste varnish will suffice. You don't need much - a pint is more than enough. The trick is to put it on DRY-DRY-DRY with a rag, and not attempt to put a 'coating' on it, per se. Scrub it in with a rag, getting only just enough on the wood to get coverage. Watch this video ( I don't use the swirl method, but go back and forth with the grain). You can buy it here, most any color is fine:

http://www.old-village.com/prod_paste_stain.html

http://youtu.be/hKeNQOTB5L0

Thanks. For someone who has never done that, how likely is it that I will mess it up? Would you apply with an old T shirt or with #000 or #0000 steel wool in the direction of grain and wipe off (as specified on this web site)

You won't mess it up. Start with a clean surface (wipe down with mineral spirits), then apply the varnish lightly with a rag. Steel wool is ONLY for working on dried surfaces, never use with wet finishing materials.

Hello,

I just finished applying the clear gel varnish (I just wanted to protect not stain) and it was indeed easy.I have applied one coat only. The wood is a bit darker now but it is fine. I know applying and additional coat will darken the wood even more (which I'd rather not do) but does a second provide more protection?

It may lighten when it dries. Don't put on more than one coat, it will get glossy if you do. Let that paste varnish dry overnight, then come back in with a 3M Scotchbrite Pad and LIGHTY knock down the nits, don't overdo it. When you're done, apply a coat of paste wax of your choice and then enjoy your table!