[masraum]

We're planning to apply conditioner (oil-based), apply stain (oil-based), apply poly (water-based).

Other than being in a dust free environment, do you have any recommendations for the best (easiest for a beginner to not screw up) method for each.

Conditioner says paint on with brush for oil-based or rag, wipe off excess in 5-15 mins, and then stain in less than 2 hours. I assume the timings are important so things don't get too dry to be consistent.

Stain says apply by stain applicator (assuming lamb's wool or synth lamb's wool style for oil-based) or rag, wipe off excess in 2-4 mins. I think I've even seen videos where folks talk about using a paint roller to apply stain.

Any tips are appreciated.

The last time, when the missus wiped the stain off, she didn't really wipe it dry. I think the timing (2-4mins) is probably pretty important so it doesn't dry too much and can be wiped off, and I think getting it thoroughly wiped off/dry is important.

Basically looking for recommendations of what we need to apply pre-stain, stain, and poly to ensure best chance of success. I've got ideas, but I'd prefer to learn from experience.