contrasted splines when using dyes?

[Andy Maldoror]

i'm building a box for a client out of walnut. they want the walnut darkened to a very dark walnut...i'm using shellac and trans-tint.
she also wants contrasted white, maybe reddish splines.
how can i apply a finish dye without darkening the splines too much?
the heavily concentrated dark walnut solution seems to darken white maple just as much as the walnut.
should i insert them and sand them down without gluing and then knock them back out before finishing?
or maybe carefully apply some kind of clear coat over them with a tiny brush before finishing.

[Chris Fournier]

This is always tricky. If the splines are already in and you're onto the colour work then do the following:

Carefully mask off the project around the splines using high quality automotive type tape. Get the tape right on the joint between the walnut and the splines.
Now tape and paper off the project.
Colour and shoot a compatible clear finish on your splines.
Remove all the paper and tape.
Colour your walnut, taping off the splines if required.
Remove all tape and paper and clear coat the entire project as needed.

Red and walnut may be a pretty nasty colour combo - I'd do some tests and get client approval.