hello....different folks use different stuff and type of wood for the blades, even plastics...i use varathane....some use linseed oil and some use edge tape...i have three yard ornament windmill airplanes...i have one blade unpainted and it has been flying at least 5 years and it is still good, just dark thats all.... i guess whatever you use will enhance the look and the life of the wood...maybe we go back to seeing what you have laying around the house and use that.......pickster