i see that this thread has been resurected so i'll add that i used the minwax hardener on the above project and have used it a couple of times since on some art projects and was very satisfied with it. easy to use, great shelf life and dried very clear. the only suggestion that i'll make is get plenty of sand paper. the minwax loads up fairly quickly at first an if you over use the same piece, especially on a random orbital, the minwax that has loaded up will harden on the paper and actually create fairly deep swirls in the wood that are tough to get out.
good luck.