Applying Stain

[axio]

Hi guys, I'm still pretty new to this stuff, and this is only my third project using stain. The first two, I just brushed on, or wiped on with a paper towel, and kept brushing it back and forth gently until it looked right. However, it remained pretty thick. It looks good, but the thickness didn't seem like it should be there?

So last night, while staining a couch table, I noticed that you're supposed to let it sit for 5-15 minutes, then wipe off the excess. I did this 45 minutes into the staining project, so it was still dark in most spots. Other pieces didn't absorb as dark, and I'll be applying a second coat tonight. Is this the right way to do it?

Brush on, then wait the 5-15, and go over it with a paper towel, wiping and rubbing into it along the grain, until it the stain is dry-looking?

[Wood_workur]

I apply it with a rag, and it usually is the right color,m and doesn't puddle or show any signs of excess. It works great.

[dkhoward]

I wipe mine on with a soft, lint free, rag. Sometimes I wipe three or four times to get the right depth and darkness. I also wipe on most of the poly that I apply.

[zootroy]

you may like to try gel stain. easy on and off. I usually dye then gel stain.