How do you seal bare wood for tabletop use?

I used polyurethane on mine. I did 3 coats because I wanted it to be shiny and protected. I did not stain the wood. However, it will change the color if you go that route. Depending on the type of wood, it may be a bit more yellow or a deeper, richer wood tone.

Annette: Polyurethane is a great sealer. Also... you may want to use a tablecloth or placemats (trivets for hot things!) when you use the table.

Tung oil is a good finish that is resistant and protective!

https://benefitsuses.com/oils/benefits-uses-tung-oil.html

Polyurethane is my choice. You can use polycrylic, but I found it wears off with constant use so I wouldn't use it on a kitchen/dining table.

I also used Poly

I agree on the Polyurethane suggestion of the other posters. I used polycrylic on mind because I didn't have an outside place to put my table for long enough to air out and fully dry Polyurethane. So far the polycrylic is holding up fine.

Annette...use polyurethane..may need 2 or 3 coats but should work for you...take your time applying and allow to dry completely..good luck

Three coats of water based polyurethane. Stays clear and does not yellow. Oil based poly has a yellow cast to it. Does yellow over time. Tung oil, teak oil, danish oil. Must be reapplied annually

Here's a run-down on all the different options

https://www.wood-finishes-direct.com/faq/table-finishes

Hey look at Arm R Seal in satin by General finishes!! Works great!!

Use polyeurathane! Several coats.

Several coats of a water based polyurethane should do the trick.