Im finishing a walnut kitchen table top, I'm hoping to shoot the top with a water based topcoat, probably GF Enduro Clear Poly. On some test pieces Im finding it really doesn't do much for the character of the wood, which in this case Is a bummer, theres a lot going on with some curly bits, and mixed heart and sapwood. I want a non-yellowing topcoat, but is there something I can do to enhance the character of the wood but also keep compatibility with the topcoat?
The short of it ... what are you guys using to enhance the depth of walnut under a WB top coat so its not so lifeless? While Im trying to avoid yellowing Im willing to make some concessions on this project as its a big 40"x72" top so I want it to pop.
Ive seen some test pieces of garnet shellac under WB poly but it still seems to lack the wow-factor of its oil-based brethren. Any experience there? Help is appreciated!