Look & Feel: This finish creates a sturdy, substantial, and rustic look. It is strongly associated with farmhouse, country, and traditional handcrafted furniture styles. It gives a feeling of strength and durability.
Grain Interaction: The key to an "Oak" style finish is its effect on the grain. A Dark Brown Oak stain is designed to sink into the wood's pores, creating a high-contrast look that heavily emphasizes the natural texture and patterns of the wood. It's a finish that you can almost "feel" with your eyes.
Best Top Coat: To maintain the rustic and natural aesthetic, this finish is typically paired with a matte or satin top coat rather than a high-gloss one.