Hi and welcome.
I have only done hollow bodies with veneers. A light rub with 240 grit paper with a flexible piece of rubber for a sanding block is about all the preparation I’ve done before staining. The sanding, sanding, sanding mantra seems to me to apply to the solid body kits. Wiser folk than me recommend NOT sanding with finer git paper prior to staining as the surface becomes too smooth for stain absorption (I take their word for it as it comes from various reliable sources).
Acetone and Goof Off have been used many a time around here to remove glue spots, just don’t unglue your veneer in the process.
I don’t sand between stain coats, some people do (I’ve only used alcohol solvent die),
3 or 4 thin tru oil coats will not be enough before sanding. The first couple will soak into the wood to begin with. I would be thinking of at least doubling the number of coats.
Hope there is something here to help you and we look forward to see your progress.
Edit: never used sanding sealer, sorry can’t advise.
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