Finish on Table Top

Hi Everyone,

I have recently managed to get on to a cabinet maker who re-routed my kauri pine table top, including the new piece of timber used for the extendable leaf. He has done a fantastic job, even to the point of sanding back for a professional finish - damn, looks as though I bought a ROS for nothing.

Anyway, opinion - I think I may need to stain the new piece of timber a little to blend in better with the old. Any suggestions on what choice of stain? Would "golden oak" be a good choice? Difference between oil and water based stains? Which works better under Hard Shellac (what I have chosen for the finish)? Will the Hard Shellac need sanding in between coats? If so, best by hand - or do I have a use for ROS here? Can I brush the Hard Shellac on, or would it be best to use a rubber?

All tips greatly appreciated.

Regards.

Marlene :rolleyes: ;) :)