Carpentry and Woodworking - building with old wood

i'm building some furniture for home (kitchen table, dresser, night stands, etc..) using some old wood i have collected. most of the furniture will be pine with the old pieces incorporated (old door for the top of kitchen table). what should i use in the way of stains on the pine and what type of finish can i use on the pine and the old wood pieces to seal and protect from use damage? i'm staying clear of anything glossy and trying to create more of a matte/dull finish that is still durable. i should note the old pieces probably have some type of stain allready on them. thanks, drgordo