Really? sander sealer first? I never used the sander sealer before staining. I always figured this stuff was like laquer and that it would seal stuff up too much and not let stain penetrate after it dried. I tried using this stuff once and the vapors made me ill and I have never tried it since. Maybe I'll try it again - I've had good luck with the minwax "wood conditioner" and no fumes or waiting to dry. Learn something every day!