This was my very first wood working project since working around my grandfather's shop 20 years ago as a child. I had to buy a few tools to get it done (circular saw, Kreg Jig), but it was a great learning experience!
I made a rookie move of wiping up excess wood glue, which didn't take the stain at all. I had to remove that glue with a Dremel tool and spot restain. Since then, I've been told to let the glue drops dry next time and just chisel off after they are dry.
Since this was my first project, I had to buy EVERYTHING I needed, so my costs were a little higher. Now that I have some groundwork laid, the next projects will be a snap.
I also highly recommend the Rockwell Jawhorse product, it made working with the Kreg Jig super easy!
3 coats of Minwax fast drying Polyurethane