DIY Network

Help. Been making quilt squares using different woods(intarsia).would like to finish so may be used as trivets or wall hanging which I have using varathane on these. Any thoughts much appreciated. TIA.

If used for hot dishes, I would opt for some type of a rubbed oil finish. This would not cause any problems with the finish trapping steam under the varnish and ghosting white.

The varathane can certainly look very pretty, but I like practicality better.

Are you drilling or routing hanging holes or horizontal slots in the back so they can easily be hung flat on a wall? They sound like a neat piece of usable art.

Conrad, Thanks for reply. I have used sawtooth hangers so far on some I have made so far

The sawtooth hangers can work fine for wall display, but they often don't work so well when you place the trivet down on a table, as they may rock a bit? If you want to use them instead of holes or slots, sticking little rubber or wooden buttons on the bottom corners (similar height to the sawtooth) could eliminate that tippy issue?