Blotch Prevention. Botching happens when areas of varying wood density absorb liquid stain differently, resulting in an unevenly stained surface that detracts from the natural beauty of the grain. Some woods, such as oak and walnut, absorb liquid stain evenly. read more
Colored (green) stain often comes in water-based, and "generic" poly is usually oil based. It's possible the oil is displacing the water-based stain and not allowing it to absorb (even though you applied it afterward, the oil is heavier and soaks into the wood a bit more I'm guessing). read more
The pine might be treated with something that is preventing the stain. Ask at place you purchased or contact the manufacturer. read more
The problem I have is that one of the beams (the most prominant one of course!) won't absorb the stain. I have tried many things - but it just won't take (see second photo below). My guess is that I oversanded the beam. read more