Treating rigging blocks prior to installation

[WalrusGuy]

I'm planning to lightly sand each block to have a smooth curve as mentioned in the Syren's instruction manual, which would expose some bare wood. 

 

Do I need to treat the blocks with tung oil (or varnish) before installation? 

[Gregory]

I think blocks look better if they are darker than the usual light colored blocks that come in kits.

 

Some oil or varnish improves the appearance IMO..

[ah100m]

I use Minwax  "Special Walnut 224" stain.  It looks right to me.

[toms10]

I agree with darker blocks. I stain mine with walnut colored stain before using. 
Tom

[WalrusGuy]

Thanks all! I think I'll try using tung oil on some test pieces then go from there. 

[Roger Pellett]

Leather dyes purchased from your local shoemaker, if your city still has one of these dying breeds, are great for staining blocks made from hard woods like boxwood and pear.  

 

 

[RichardG]

I found an initial coat of sanding sealer gives a more even color, otherwise the end grain absorbs too much dye or stain