" tested an area with the minwax wood finish I got."

Which finish, specifically, did you use?

Two issues: Sanding does not always remove all the old finish, so it inhibits the new stain from working right.

Second, a lot of factory-made pieces have a toner on them. Toners are finishes with color in them and almost always have to be sprayed on.

Good news is that you can buy toners in many places. many specialty stores sell Mohawk-finishing.com toners. Otherwise you can get them mail order.

http://shop.guardsman.com/guardsman/store/productDetail.html?productId=5426

http://woodfinishersdepot.com/index.php?cPath=10_44_59

http://mohawk-finishing.com/catalog_browse.asp?ictNbr=22

More limited selections:
http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=17682&site=ROCKLER

http://www.woodcraft.com/product/2007235/2148/behlen-lacquer-extra-dark-walnut.aspx

I use these almost daily. The technique is to apply many light coats with drying in between .a) to sneak up on the color, b) to keep it from going opaque (paint), and c) to keep it from getting color "curtains."

Mask off the upholstery before trying. It would also be a good idea to practice on some scrap wood or cardboard until you get the hang of it. Start the can moving, start the spray, go off the end and release the actuator. Move parallel to the wood, not a "sweeping" motion.

Lazygardens - The Minwax just says "wood finish" and "penetrates, stains & seals"
Bobsmyuncle - thanks, I will check into these.
When are the gel stains appropriate?