I am entering the home stretch with the tables.  After a couple months of fits and starts, finding the right mix of techniques and approaches, the tables are well constructed for heavy use as work tables, and yet stylish enough to fit in well with kitchen decor.

 

The ash wood has gone from a towheaded blonde to a beautiful golden color, with translucent figure highlighting the grain.  I am layering tung oil progressively using a wet sanding technique that builds up a hard, smooth finish.