Counter top finish

[wiersy111]

I am thinking about making live edge counter tops for my wife. I haven't started anything at this time so I don't know what species yet even. What kind of finish is on the market that would best protect the counters?

Just so everyone knows I am not a novice in the cabinetry field. I have worked for a couple of high end cabinet/ custom furniture makers for close to twenty years. And have done a considerable amount of smaller work from my own shop.

[Kbeitz]

Epoxy...

[woodweasel]

2 part epoxy

[ozarkgem]

Famwood Glaze coat. See pics of the walnut coffee table in this post.

[scsmith42]

Most professionally built restaurant tables are finished with post catalyzed conversion varnish.  It does not have the "plastic" look that epoxy has.  It is a spray finish that requires respirators and a paint booth.  Usually a layperson cannot buy it.

Be sure to finish all sides and with a similar number of coats of finish; otherwise the slabs may cup.

[wiersy111]

For something as high traffic as a countertop I don't know if the epoxy will hold up. The cabinet/ furniture shops I have worked for used Lacquers and Conversion Varnish but I don't know that they would hold up to everyday kitchen use. Most finishes I have experience with are durable however not scratch proof. I am wondering if there is a flooring product that would be more suited the the use of a counter.

[Kbeitz]

Epoxys is what is used for most beer bars. It holds up very well.