I tested the wood stain on a piece of scrap wood to make sure that it was easy to work with and an ideal color. I poured the stain on the wood and used a rag to disperse the color. This was my first time working with wood stain, so there were some areas that were blotchy and some areas where a mark had been left so the stain would not penetrate. However, I don't think it turned out too bad for the first time.