Staining inside cuts different colors

[cskipper]

If I wanted to add a little color to the inside cut edges different than the top - would it work to put a carefully applied coat of poly on the top and then do the color on the inside cuts? Would the top coat of poly prevent any "spill over" (translate as sloppy, unskilled) of the color from absorbing in the top?

 

[dozer]

If you used a gel stain or some type of non penetrating stain I think you would be just fine.

 

[DaveO]

You might also consider carefully staining the inside cuts and then sanding the face to remove any accidental over runs. I have made routed signs where the letter are cut into the wood and then painted. That is how I get a crisp edge between the field and the recessed letters.
My .02, Dave

 

[jeff...]

Apply shades darker with a small artist brush and wipe a little off with a rag. This is how old timers used to highlight their carvings. The darker background seems to make the lighter colored carvings pop, if you know what I mean.