Here is a little bit of background.

I have made two twin beds for my daughters out of solid maple. On the first one I built about two years ago I tried Danish oil with brushed on poly over top of it. I like the color and finish in most spots, but the danish oil came out really blotchy. I just figured I didnt prep the piece well enough and chalked it up to inexperience.

Well, not that I have finished the second bed, I wanted to do the same finish so that the pieces would match (they are going in the same room) and I made sure that I sanded the pieces thoroughly with 100, 150, and 220 grit, but the oil is still really blotchy.

Next time I do a piece, what finish would you suggest for a piece that you want the natural maple color to show through. Or, did I make some mistake in the finish I tried (I tried it because other had had success with it)

Thanks,