[banjoQ]

If you are or know someone who is a wood worker, try the "Good Stuff". You will need to go to a real lumber yard or wood working store to find it. I've never seen it at the big box stores. It's an oil based polyresin that leaves a satin finish. Just clean your surfaces and wipe it on with a clean rag. cleans up with mineral spirits. I have used this many times in the refinishing of antique furniture and swear by it. Sounds like just the thing for your project. good luck.