Well, I'm getting close to completing the cradle, and the baby will probably be here within the next two weeks which brings me to my next question. I have little finishing knowledge and would like some suggestions on how to finish the Red Oak Cradle. Bruce Page and Nathan Yeager of SMC made this same cradle and I really like how they made the panels, hardware, runner tops, and spindles contrast lighter than the rest of the cradle. But since mine is made entirely of Red Oak, can I still make some sort of contrast look good using a combination of finishing products? You can see theirs at http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=2801
and http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=30065
I am also concerned about safety, and my wife will be especially worried if there is any odor whatsoever. I'd rather let the baby sleep elsewhere for a few days/weeks to let a better looking finish cure than to use something that will cure in less time but not look so great.
I researched a few methods already such as using Seal-A-Cell followed by a few coats of Arm-R-Seal. I was thinking of using Seal-A-Cell everywhere, then clear Arm-R-Seal for the panels, spindles, and other areas I want to be lighter, then Arm-R-Seal with a darker stain added on the other parts to get the similar contrast as on Bruce and Nathan's. I just so happened to choose the darker boards for the frames and lighter boards for the panels.
What would be the best (and safe) method to finish the Red Oak?
THANKS!
Stephen