Some softwoods have a greatly varying density & will always look patchy
- for these only a light staining is possible by sealing with clear
varnish first followed by stained varnish.

Better quality softwoods can be bleached (peroxide), grain filler
applied, and stained in the normal way.

I much prefer a cellulose sealed & waxed finish personally - although
you can get coloured waxes.