Hi Normy,
Application of tape is a must do. Some people suggest sanding smooth, another thing (if you are careful enough to keep it off the wood) is give the binding a couple of coats of your clear coat. Be prepared to scrape after staining no matter what you do. Alcohol stains have a reputation for getting into cracks more than water based.
Start a build diary and you’ll get a better response to questions and advice as you go.