I agree with the Coach on the Watco process. They may have said something on the can about wet sanding with the Watco too. I haven't used the stuff in a long time.
If you want to use a traditional stain, Pine verses hardwood is an issue. Pine will suck up the stain and it could end up drying blotchy. I ran into a similar problem with Miniwax on oak, the stain oozed out of the pores of the wood and left blotches, even sealer didn't work too well on that problem. I would try a test piece and see what happens. You may have to start with a sealer, then stain to the desired color. I am into a major pine project now and it looks like I will end up doing this for a lot of board feet. The Coach is using some pretty hard lumber that will take a finish easier and better than pine. The key here is he is sealing the pores of the wood and then topcoating. I am assuming you are spraying the top coat. Light sanding between coats and build a deep looking finish.
You can probaly call the company 800 number and get some free advice on how many coats and any special techniques on how to apply.
