I used my pocket knife some sandpaper, and some stain making this one, I figure I'll play around with different techniques as I make each one.
![Image](https://i.imgur.com/PD62n4f.jpg)
![Image](https://i.imgur.com/Y5gDjAP.jpg)
![Image](https://i.imgur.com/juwz08R.jpg)
So far it seems that the areas that were sanded the most are taking stain the best. I have a few more pieces to do so as I get more familiar with the process it may become more apparent what technique is working the best.