Completed this week and it turned out pretty nice.  All the spindles/ newel post were hemlock with a natural finish (this is first coat).  Post caps were poplar stained to match with clear pine moulding under the post cap.  I put all the quarter cut to the front and back  which kept all the wild flat grain in between the spindles ( there was a wide variety and customer asked for this)  I’ve done my fair share of railing but this was the first time with this product/ finish.  I really liked the coloring of the wood  and the HO was pleased with the end product.  Makes for a good day.