I took a class with Ray Key last month and we did platters out of simple poplar for practice. I have not been a big fan of much surface treatment but I liked the platter shape enough that I wanted to do something a little special to the simple wood. It has some grain pattern, but it's very subtle.
I created a basic spiral pattern -- very tiny lines/gaps -- and etched it on the wide rim. I was pleased and surprised to see that it not only dressed the surface but actually enhanced the grain a bit instead if obliterating it. At least that's the way I see it. I think I might be trying this again soon.
