[Reg]

I like Flecto Varathane brand polyurethane. You can buy it in oil/water base in a multitude of types and sheens. The water based goes on like milk but dries clear which can be helpful.

The paste wax finish is nice over it and reduces the platic look you may get with a high gloss.

The Baltic Birch is a great product, very strong in 3mm to 18mm thickness.