I have experimented with several different finishes, depending on the use, the shape, etc. A question I have is when I create a piece that is simply for decoration, not to be used on a daily basis, I have used varying finishes of spray poly. Just tonight I finished a spalted maple bowl and finished it with a semi gloss poly. One thing I run into is not getting a silky smooth finish. I tend to give a few light coats and before the final coats give a light rub with 400 grit sand paper and of course blow it out before the final spray. Still slightly gritty (and I'm being picky, wife says I'm nuts). I have read the recent threads on the beale buffing system, don't really know the details, but got me thinking maybe I need a final step in my process whether I use a spray poly, friction polish, or beeswax. Please let me know your thoughts.