When I put the poly on, the wood (stained cherry) looks amazingly bright, with depth of color. After it dries, it looks dull. Is there a top coat I can put on to make it bright like when it is wet?
Note, I am using satin poly since I don't want a glossy finish, but I do want a bright, deep, color.
Best Answer
For critical color "warmth" and "color pop" on fine wood projects (e.g. musical instruments like guitars) drying oils (e.g. tung oil, boiled linseed oil) are often used. Sometimes they are then hand-rubbed only, or wax, lacquer, shellac, or even poly are applied on top.
I recommend you visit Woodworking Stack Exchange and search under the "Finish" tag.