I have to make about 200 Christmas ornaments using 1/8" BB. Last year, I didn't use any finish and had to sand off the smoke. This year, I would like to apply something first.

I'm going for a natural finish.

Shellac? Maybe two coats. This would be easiest.

I'm a fan of Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey varnish.

I also have some oil based varnish but it is a bit amber. It's the stuff they used on my oak floors.