Light wood to Dark wood finish

Thanks, I think I will go with oil based stain.

 

Thank you for detailed info. Today went to HD and showed them my tank pics, they recommended to use stain and some kind of sealant for finish. As per what they said, it looks like easy job, will try this week and post pictures.

What about trim of tank, I don't know if strain works on it since it's not real wood?

 

Lots of ventilation and i might even move furniture out of that room for a week so it doesnt soak up varnish smell. I left mine in the garage for a week after I stained and varnished mine due to smell, good luck The trim wont stain you could paint it.

 

Thanks everyone for all your suggestions. Initially I felt it's big work that something I can't do, but you all gave very good ideas. I am able to successfully apply wood strain and get desired color.

I used minmax ebony color and it fits perfectly. though it looks like black color on label, actually it's chocolate color. I have attached pics before and after, may be several coats will make it darker but I just wanted this color.

Tip : Make sure to sand it properly otherwise strain won't stick.