After you are done with that, use the prestain sealer mentioned above, then tape out your center strip and stain it in the darker color you want.
Now how much work do you want to do?
You can take an artists brush and trace out the joint lines between strips to out line them using the same stain as the center or the stain that you will use for the rest of the project...the last may be better as blending may be easier.
As you apply the stain to the rest of the strips, start where you want it darker and use a rag to "pull" the color towards where you want it lighter. Just like a reular "apply and wipe" operation for putting on stain except you wipe it down more where you want it lightest...less where you want it darker...I hope that makes sense to you.
As I said how much work do you want to do...the more detailed you make it the more the amount of work goes up
TEST & PRACTICE TEST & PRACTICE TEST & PRACTICE
I can't stress the above enough, you have a mighty fine tear going on there so before you try doing a truly unique finish test and practice the technique
good luck and keep us posted
madjack
p.s. remember Your Mileage May Vary and I accept no resposibility for anything unless it comes out absolutely stunning
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