I pretty much "water pop" any piece of wood that is going to 220 or higher. De-whiskering is a given before staining.

In the H&H video linked in another thread, you can see the stocker sanding in the filler, post de-whiskering.

After a mis placed soda bottle, I watched a man FRENCH POLISH the top of my mothers piano. It was easy to watch, as my mothers polishing of my behind prevented me from sitting down.
Figure 8's, then finished with cigar ash. Amazing depth on that finish.

Out there doing it best I can.