After applying oil type stain with a rag and drying, a significant amount of blotches appeared on the surface. The surface has no endgrain so am confused why this would happen. I sanded and scraped the stained surface in hopes of solving the problem and reapplying stain without the blotches, but thought I best ask first. This problem has not occured with walnut but did not think cherry would be so bad. The stain is usually applied directly to the dry wood then successive coats of tung oil poly (usually ZAR in most cases) or similar finish is used. I have heard/read that shellac or similar pore sealer is used to prevent blotches but am concerned that the grain patterns would be hidden. Any thoughts on this....alternatives or corrections on applying the stain?