bamboo countertop finish recommendations needed

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I recently replaced our slide-in kitchen range and now I have to replace the island-style countertop it slides into because the old range needed a deeper cutout so there's a half-inch gap at the back of the range.

I'm planning to use a sheet of bamboo plywood, because we really like the look. I'm researching finishes. Ideally the finish would be food-safe, matte, and really durable. I'm planning to finish both sides to mimimize warping. I can spray it if I have to although I'd rather wipe or brush. I'm also thinking of using a product like Benite to seal the surface and bring up the color.

I'd be grateful for any product recommendations.

 

[cflansbaum]

I built a bamboo countertop for an island in our kitchen.  If I remember correctly the style was called Neopolitan.  However a quick web search turned it up at Cali Bamboo where it's called "marbled."  I was in an experimental phase with finishing and try a number of oil and varnish combinations.  Backing up a bit, the problem I had with this was that this type of bamboo - although beautiful, tears out really easily.

Anyway to answer your question...  I ended up using BEHLEN Rockhard Table Top Varnish.  The island isn't used for food prep, but does get heavily used.  Seems like there's a pretty good consensus however that any finish - once properly cured - is ok for food prep, although I probably wouldn't cut on it or put hot items on it.

I am very happy with it -- although I probably would use a pore sealer if I was to use this type of plywood again.  It get's a WOW from everyone walking in the room.

Carl

 

[chris mann]

Plyboo's version is called Neopolitan, so that's probably the brand you ended up getting.
http://plyboo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=57&Itemid=180

There are also thicker slabs made specifically for counter tops at totally bamboo.

You can finish bamboo like any other wood counter top.  If you are going to be cutting on it and don't mind the aged look, then a simple oil finish is what I'd use.  Either mineral oil or a linseed oil like tried & true.

-chris

 

[EcoFurniture]

Oil and wax would be my recommendation also. But a another nice products that would be more durable and non-toxic is AFM safecoat polyureseal.

 

[colotimber]

Just finished a bathroom counter with Plyboo and used 3 coats of tung oil and then buffed the top.

Dan

 

[mhoy]

I'm about to embark on doing my kitchen cabinet doors with simple bamboo panels.  Any hints would be greatly appreciated.

I've used this as a reason to pick up a used ATF 55 and also a used Rotex RO150 E-Plus.  I'll be on the look out for a dust collector next.  Slippery slope here...  ;D

Mark