@julybighouse thank you very much! Due to my inexperience, I was just planning on staining afterwards. Now, I am not really sure on staining versus dyes and which order to do it in. The only thing we have used is Unicorn Spit on my IKEA butcher block desk (think that is considered a stain).
I am wanting to try some wooden scenery pictures like the Wolf inlays.
Sounds like I need to tell the person that wants me to make them something for an anniversary … that this is going to take more time to learn/do than he has time for. Bummer.
However, can you tell me what you usually use or what the pros and cons are of using a traditional stain versus the dyes (water and oil based). I feel like I just stepped into the paint shop with my eyes glazed over. 
Thank you!!!