I have learned through experience with trying a few of these, they are NOT a one size fits all kind of thing. I have BIG feets, and most of the ones I have tried are way too small. Never thought of making one just for me, but I may give it a go. Seems like it's a really sound idea. Nice build, hope your Mom liked hers.
Any of the "oils" we put on wood will pop the grain, BLO is just toward the lower end of the price scale. :-) Bargain BOOOM!!!!!