Okay, I've been playing with carving again. I have several things carved in basswood. I used mineral oil for the spoons, even though I can't imagine they will ever come into contact with food. So they are now food safe, but kind of boring. I've got another piece that I am close to call finished and wondered if there a better choice to use as a finish? I know, I know - pictures will follow shortly, so if necessary, imagine this question as a scenario instead of an almost finished (sorry for the pun) project.