I have a new wood shelf that I am trying to stain to a sun-bleached colour. I believe the wood is pine. Before staining, I sanded thoroughly with grit 60, 100, 150, 220. I also used a conditioner before the staining.

My finished stained shelf has significant portions in which the stain is not absorbing. So far, I have put two coats on. Are more coats needed?

I have read on a couple of web sites lately that said to add a sealer before staining instead of after. Has anyone tried that? If I seal it now and then add a coat of stain, would that fix the problem?

Any tips are appreciated.