On the materials you are using I would go simple and opt for a matt or gloss spray lacquer it will work fine on the materials you are using and dries in no time at all. I do use tung oil it takes a while to dry and has a smell I am not to keen on bit does make cheap old pine look ok it depends on your time limits to get the item finished I would buy some tester pots and do a load of sample pieces and see what suits you best every one is different in what they like etc. If you are just looking to seal it and keep it looking as it was finished spray it frame it out it is my rule
Great info from @Bill WIlson on the breakdown of different finishes you gotta love this site it is like a huge encyclopedia of know how you learn something new everyday