I have new skylights and it's my job to stain the frame. The original ceiling wood is possibly not stained, but aged pine. sometimes it looks red, sometimes it looks brown depending on the light. I tried staining using a mix of two different varathane classic wood stain colors, but so far it's not looking good. after four coats, it's too pale and reddish, the grain is too high contrast, and so many coats is making the finish look shiny. I hesitate on what I should do to remedy. here's what I'm thinking:

1. I have artist oil paints on hand. mix dark brown paint into the stain I already have to tone it down. I think paint will have the added benefit of making it just a hint more opaque and dull which is what I think I need. of course I would do test coats on a scrap of wood first.

OR go to the store and buy another varathane in walnut or espresso to do one more coat (but would rather avoid making another trip).

2. after it's dry, lightly rub with a scotch brite pad to dull the shine.

I realize that matte varnish would also dull the shine, but the fumes are really getting to me and I just want to do one more coat of stain and be done with the toxic part of this project.

any other advice is welcome.

below is a picture, but it does not do any justice. in real life, it looks much too bright and shiny. I know I won't get a perfect match, just want to bring it closer.