You could also use driveway sealers,available at General Paints,Rona,etc.They come in a glaze or satin finish.Messy stuff and somewhat toxic,but,another metod for ya!
Cheers from here

Thanks Rickharmer,
Which finish do you think looks better, the glaze or satin?
Do you paint it on with a brush or gloves?
Thank-you for the help.

Rick - is it OK to use a toxic glaze if birds are going to be using it? Just wondering...

Most of that kind of thing is only toxic when it's in the liquid stage. Once it's fully dried/cured it's non-toxic. Same with epoxies and paints, once cured they are totally inert. If the stuff comes off when wetted (after a complete cure) it's not what you want to use in the first place. :)

My needs vary according to the piece being finished.I use a glaze for the "wet"look,and satin for a more muted finish.I always use gloves while finishing and GOOD ventilation,outdoors if possible.And,at this juncture,I use brush on.A power sprayer in the future?I'll have to ask my better half.
Ouch!!!I guess I'll ask her later...
Cheers from here

Unless you are painting fine furniture or a car it's hard to beat this sprayer for sealers
I even use it to spray window cleaner, glue, release film, etc. It's as simple as opening a jar of pickles.
I have almost twenty different jars with paints, glues, sealers.

Here is a link that might be useful: GREAT sprayer

Thank-you for all the info. I've put a sprayer on my wish list for my birthday. Happy belated birthday to you davidmcdc.