Finishing Cherry

I know this has been discussed, but currently I am confused.

I am making the Ask Bud Bird Cross and the Jesus Cross with Cherry. I tried Natural Stain and it turned very dark Brown. Looking to keep lighter in color.

Does anyone have a preferred method to finish? 50/50 Shellac, no stain etc.

Thanks

Don Pott

Cherry naturally darkens with age. I do not use any stain on cherry. Polyurethane varnish or lacquer only.

One that I have used on that cross in cherry was natural danish oil