I am making an arbor for climbing roses. The arbor will be cedar. I am considering dyeing the cedar a darker brown with Transtint or Homestead Transfast dye. Then I will "paint" with an oil deep base which dries fairly clear. The question is will the dye hold up as well as pigment/stain if it is protected by the "paint"?

The other option would be just to apply a semi transparent deck stain.

What is your experience/opinion?

Thank you.