Thanks guys!
Mitch, the burn marks show my lack of experience at keeping a continuos motion while trying to keep the hoop flat on the table. Felt like I needed 4 hands!
I am planning on finish sanding and going the standard black paint on these. I don't think clear maple or stain would look as good with silver or green.
I'm still on the fence though. Clear maple and green might look OK.
I should make some good progress toward finishing these this weekend.
More pics to come.....