New Need some input on different ways to finish baltic birch

Well I’m learning to scroll saw and due to the fact this is the cheapest way to go This is what I’m learning on. I heard you cant stain baltic birch cept llike sheila landry does with staining and antiqueing medium and acrylic mixed with it. I would like to try that to make some wood tones but what other ways can you do things with the wood? I’m making a scrolled stand to hold three small candles and then I’m also making some 10 to 12 inch clocks. the clock part is a flower with the face in the middle and the other clocks are mini clocks on a stand and have different themes like aquatic and a bird sitting on a branch.Some of these might lend themselves to painting so the details of the items would stick out. I dont know what kind of paints to use or what to do to the wood except for sanding it. I hear of so many different things my mind is getting all boggled down if tons of info. i think I should start where im at which is these items Im getting ready to make. If I wanted to leave the baltic as is. how does that procedure go? brush on tongues oil and then I get foggy. do I sand it after each time I brush on the tongues oil and it dries? See im a mess. I just need procedures on how to do and when to fo it. I like high glass finish when all is said and done whether its paint or if its natural. hope someone has enough time to help. I sure would appreciate it. I’ve been reading for days