After much debate, sample stains and discussion, Nicole and I decided on a wipe on poly finish with no stain for our desk. The maple did not take the stain the way Nicole would have liked, but I think the desk still looks pretty good, although since the color is wrong, we must paint our office... again... The pictures below show the desk (disassembled) in middle of the finishing process.
Desk top
Drawers and keyboard face
Some pictures show the figure of the maple better than others, but you get the idea.
Keyboard tray
Did you notice my new work bench under the desk drawers? Took some time to make a new bench while deciding how to finish this desk. It is awesome (if I do say so myself). A true wood working bench, with tool tray in the back and underneath the top, giant 18" wide tail vise (no front vise yet) and holes for bench dogs. It's made from beech and maple with a 3" thick top and 5" skirt. Eventually I will add some drawers, but in order to start the finishing on the desk I had to stop creating dust from cutting wood.
Desk top
Drawers and keyboard face
Some pictures show the figure of the maple better than others, but you get the idea.
Keyboard tray
Did you notice my new work bench under the desk drawers? Took some time to make a new bench while deciding how to finish this desk. It is awesome (if I do say so myself). A true wood working bench, with tool tray in the back and underneath the top, giant 18" wide tail vise (no front vise yet) and holes for bench dogs. It's made from beech and maple with a 3" thick top and 5" skirt. Eventually I will add some drawers, but in order to start the finishing on the desk I had to stop creating dust from cutting wood.
