Roll Your Own Bongo Cajon

Step 12: Don't Ask How It's Made

I finished the drum with a couple of coats of tung oil.  This protects and seals and leaves a nice finish.  I also did some additional sanding after applying the stain but before the oil.  At first I was concerned about ruining my stain job, but I rather like the distressed look it gave the drum so I left it.

Applying the oil will raise the grain a bit.  Use steel wool or 220 grit sandpaper to smooth it back out after each coat is applied.  Three coats later and I'm happy with it.  If you like it glossier apply more.  Oh, and don't forget to let it dry completely in between coats and before sanding.  Clean the fish tank, if you need something to do while you're waiting.