Staining and hanging suggestions for Xmas present

[jussi]

Made this little sign for my sister's family. I got a pile of varied rough lumber a while back and this was in the pile. Anyone know what species it is? The pic on the top right has a piece of the rough stock.

Second, what type of stain/finish do you suggest. This is one of first non-shop related projects I've made so far so I don't have much experience with finishes yet. I'm thinking it will probably be outside so keep that in mind.

Finally, what sort of hardware would u suggest. I was thinking they would hang it somewhere near the front door.

[catta12]

I usually put keyhole slots on signs I make.

One example of how to do it:
http://www.benchnotes.com/Keyhole%20...lot_Guide.html

[Uncle Cracker]

Hard to tell what specie from the pictures, but resembles some examples I've seen of Bubinga, Honduran Rosewood, or Padauk. The grain looks like Red Oak, but there is usually not that much color contrast in that stuff. The figuring is also reminiscent of Canarywood, but I have not seen that much pinkish color in that particular wood. (Besides, if it was Canarywood, I'd break out just from looking at the pictures...)

For outdoor use, a good spar varnish finish will last a long time.

[Pappy]

Not sure if the color in the pictures is accurate or not, but the wood looks like Red Oak. If so, it takes stains well and it is a matter of deciding what shade you want. Store sample boards are generally on Red Oak and Pine. I would also go with a spar varnish for the finish.

Ditto on the keyhole slots. I sometimes run them horizontal. Makes hanging and adjusting for level easy.

[herb fellows]

+1 on red oak, as far as the look of the grain. What's up with the color though? It looks like it had a bath in some Ikea water based stain!

[schloff]

One more that suggests red oak.

I would use an oil finish on that. I have used Spar in the past, and it never really lives up to it's reputation. Considering this is a gift, I would doubt that the ricipient would know how to care for a spar finish, and it would flake in about a year or so.

Oak isn't the best outdoor project materail, so if you could suggest that it be hung in a sheltered area, that might be beneficial. Any place that is not in the direct rain and sun would be best. Under a soffit, wherever.

All of that being said, I really like the outcome of this. The details show the care you put into it. They are very lucky to have family like you.