I've got a project made of soft Maple for which I need advice about finishing.
My Daughter-in-law wanted it painted white but I talked her out of it after sending her a picture of the crib unfinished -- it has a white look to it. She was happy with that. Now my problem is protecting the wood with varnish or whatever, preferably with a finish that will withstand milk, food stains and what not. I tried a Mimwax natural stain on scrap wood but that leaves an amber tone. Tried Minwax polyurethane but that too leaves a similar natural tone. Tried Pickled Oak stain but the same results. Ditto for laquier
So how can I get a durable finish and yet retain the natural look?