I LOVE gel stains. So easy to use, and the best part is they don't require a heavy sanding. I would recommend general finishes gel stains. They are the best.

Just wondering if you redid this piece and if so how did it come out? We are getting ready to do the same thing.

any stain will require a top coat, so keep that in mind. you need to scrub the dirt and oil off. then do you're sanding. also remember , if you sand through the existing finish into raw wood, that spot will be different. sometimes it's better to leave it alone and call it distressing . for a quick and dirty job to darken it, do the above and put a colored poly on it and call it art.

Howard's Furniture refinisher is a terrific product. Comes in a wide range of colors. Love your piece.