I am getting around to refinishing the cabinet on a Chickering grand
(1927) that I have been working on for some time.  I purchased aniline
dyes to mix to my favorite slightly reddish brown and tested the mixes
on mahogany strips.  Then I realized the logistical problems of making
enough to finish the job and knowing the exact combination of dyes to
get my color.  Then there is the grain-raising effect of the water.

It seems to me that an easier solution (no pun intended) is to just buy
a MinWax stain, then topcoat with a clear lacquer.  I don't have a dust
free paint shop, so I would use brush-on lacquer (Deft).

I have seen pianos that I was told were finished using MinWax products.
Any comment would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Larry Toto
Philadelphia