Finishing cherry that will live like a vampire?

[Andrew Wayland]

I found my best results were with a nylon paint brush (for those following).
I may try one more application to see if I can darken a few pieces any more.

I'm also on the fence about neutralizing the wood? So far I've just applied the solution and allowed it to air dry. I plan on covering it with Arm R Seal for protection, but I'm wondering if it's work adding a vinegar solution beforehand.... any thoughts?

[Sam Murdoch]

As I understand it - if you don't neutralize the lye will keep on working. Like trying to apply a finish to a slow moving avalanche and expect no changes to the color of the snow cap over time. Why risk all this effort to avoid one more step?