mcbeigh Thanks very much for your reply. I'm undecided as to whether we should seal it or let it gray, also love the look of the grey. Thanks again. Michèle

Widner Product Finishing I use a combination of two german products, called Fuhr and Klumpp. Fuhr is the primer and then I buff on an oil to enhance the sheen. I have never had anything other than remarkable results. Tongue oil, linseed oil, rosewood oil always turn blotchy over time, which requires continual maintenance at a level not required with the other products I use. It still calls for maintenance, but it can be spot checked since the sealer I use does not bond to itself.