Trivet finish

[MikeDingas]

I'm making several tivets for our new ceramic-top stove using 3/4" red oak. Any suggestions on finish? The oak looks nice enough unfinished but I'm not sure how it will hold up to hot pans.

[Marcel in Longueuil]

Hi Mike,

You may want to do a search on trivets on this section of the forum for further advice, this subject has been approached before.

I'd recommend an oil (Walnut, Danish, Tung, BLO, Mineral) finish. It will pop out the grain pattern, and give protection once you let it cure properly

I don't believe a polyurethane would stand up to the heat, so I'd not recommend that.

Shellac, lacquer and catalysed lacquers should stand up fine once fully cured.

Regards,
Marcel

[NC Scroller]

Mike, I have used Tung oil on oak tivets and have never had a issue. I also added small self stick felt pads to the underside which will raise the tivet slightly and allow for better air flow which keeps the wood cool.

Scott

[MikeDingas]

Thanks, guys. I'll go with one of the oils, soon as I get to the hardware store. Great idea on the felt pads, too. Never thought about that.