I've seen a similar design to Dan's using stain.

I asked about it and was told the person who did it scored the wood first, to prevent the stain from soaking over.... I'm not sure of the details, but that is what I was told.

The same person said they did not recomend staining large areas, as it can become blochy over time.

Never tried it, or had personal experince with it myself though

cheers,

Myrl