Here’s a new finish that I’m trying: it’s called Tried and True Oil, and I’m using the Varnish Oil blend. It Linseed-Oil based, and so far I’m pleased with the results. (Note, I still use Shellac as my standard finish, unless otherwise noted on any given instrument.)

One of the best things about this finish is that it is completely non-toxic both in it’s cured, and uncured states. (That’s me dipping my bare finger into the oil in the upper left picture.) It’s even FDA approved for food contact surfaces.

But what I really like about this finish is that it soaks into the wood and really brings out the figure of the grain. Seen in the upper left picture is a curly Ash psaltery that just had a fresh application of the oil.

I’ve begun to offer this as a finish option for custom instruments. It has a very down-to-earth feel. The look and texture of the wood is completely preserved.