[Lupus]

Hey guys I am making my first box and the stain is coming out terrible. I didn't use a pre conditioner which may be my problem. Any thoughts?

 

[Lupus]

It's red oak. The top is maple and sweet gum with paudak miter keys. This whole thing has been a disastrous learning experience. My shop isn't heated or insulated so my wood keeps moving and stain looks weird. Should have stained before the keys I've learned too! This thing is shot, notice I had to plane one side a lot thinner. Cant remember why but it caused the side to split open.