I guess I disagree. I think it depends, but do say it is not appropriate for fret work. I have used it many times. I use it in every military emblem I have made to give contrast to the middle ring. I used a jell stain and a pipe cleaner. No one has complained yet. Sure, I could use contrasting wood, but it would be a huge waste of wood, and I give these away for free. Now, if I wanted to stain a detailed fret piece, I would do the dipping method, which is no different than using the dipping method to apply a finish like tongue oil or something. I put a wood conditioner on the wood before staining. Help eliminate most of the parts that would block.