When you want a beautiful finish for inexpensive wood (such as the poplar shown here), consider using gel stain. These stains don’t penetrate as deeply into the wood, so they’re much more likely to give you an even finish.
Application Technique. Use a rag to apply a liberal coat of gel stain to the wood. You can allow it to soak into the wood for a darker color, or wipe it off immediately for a lighter finish.
