n00b looking for advice

Hi guys –
I’m working on a few pieces for the garage (workbench and cabinets) and I am using these as tests and to build skills for future actual projects for in the house.

I am trying to find out some details on what the best method to apply things would be.

I have two pieces (both Maple plywood) – the first I put three coats of Watco danish oil (natural) on and let it dry for a couple weeks.
Then I quickly and lightly hit it with 320 to knock down a little bit and then brushed on a coat of rust-oleum ultimate poly (waterbased). I am planning on doing at least 3 coats. if after this first coat it feels rough again should I sand – or wait until another couple of coats then sand? What schedule should I follow?

The second piece I just put varathane natural cherry wipe on stain the grain didn’t pop much with that, I am planning on hitting it with the same poly.
what schedule should I use for this one?

Thanks for the advice!

-- -- Todd, Washington