Thank you all for your kind words. I am glad you like these trays because I love designing them. They have really been well received.
It is made of Birch (solid, not ply) and I use a mineral oil finish. When the oil dries after a couple of days, I use spray shellac to finish it. I love this method of finishing fretwork because I think the oil really brings out the grains all kinds of the wood and makes them look 'deep'. I realize that shellac is the most durable finish, but for fine fretwork like this that isn't handled a lot, it does fine. I find it less likely to drip and it sprays on very evenly if you apply several light coats.
I like using mineral oil because not only is it inexpensive, but there is no odor whatsoever. For this type of project, I use a square cake pan and just pour the oil over the piece and let it set a bit. I then flip it over. If I need to, I use a brush to work it in. I then have a little cake rack that I put over the pan and let it drip dry for a bit before wiping it down with a soft cloth. If I really want it to look great (like on walnut) after it is nearly dry, I use 600 grit sandpaper and dip it in the oil and work it into the pores. I find this gives an incredibly deep finish. Then I allow it to dry a day or so before spraying. It has always worked well for me and buffing in the oil leaves my hands soft and nice - an extra bonus!
As for the Valentines - I have a sweetheart tray available, as well as a shamrock one and others. They are all up on my site.
Thanks again for your kindness.
