Expert: Jamie Yocono - 11/1/2009

Question
I made a candy dish and want to know what stain or finish to put on safely so not to poison anyone.

Answer
Bob,

The best non-toxic finish is plain mineral oil. Make sure the wood is sanded well, and wipe it with mineral oil. It's widely available - just wipe it on and wipe it off. Simple. I would apply two coats, letting each one dry between coats. The second coat will really enhance the color.

There are many finishes you can use for a non-toxic coat. I like Watco Danish Oil, but you have to let it cure before it's truly non-toxic. Curing can take 3-7 days, depending on the humidity in your area and the temperature of where the dish is located. Watco is easy to apply, you can wet-sand it with fine sandpaper, which really gives you an ultra smooth finish.

Here's a video to watch about it's application: http://wooditis.blogspot.com/2008/05/watco-danish-oil-come-oil-and-laugh.html

Watco is sold by the Rustoleum Corporation, so it's also widely available. Most big box hardware stores sell it. Look for the "Natural" color, which is clear.

Good luck, I hope this helps.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com
My woodworking blog: www.wooditis.blogspot.com