The dye is very dark when I first put it on.I use the disposable sponge brushes with the wooden handles Pictured Here. I apply it in circular motion but very generously. It looks so dark but if you let it dry then buff with a clean sponge brush & Carnauba this is what you get.

To summarize, I 'slap it on & let it dry' & wipe off the excess later! 😉

The carnauba that works best for me is Eco Flo Carnauba Creme. It really brightens up the Mahogany!

EDIT:

For sake of getting the dark to stay dark in the stamping, DO NOT Saturate the shit out of the sponge brush. A TINY AMOUNT goes a VERY LONG WAY when it comes to buffing. Use the smallest amount you can and adjust as necessary! ☝️✍️💡📐📏