I'd like to add my 2 cents worth. If I were going for the look in the pic - I'd strip the finish that is on it now and then stain it with a really dark stain. I just used a 'gel' stain for a table and it came out very nice. The color was "java" but I don't remember the brand off-hand. (if your interested I can look it up tomorrow, I'm sure I have notes in my log).
After you achieve the color then you can put on a top coat. I love shellac and it the safest finish there is but you won't get that satin look. I like General Finishes Oil-Polyurethane Wipe-on Finish (I get this at Woodcraft but Rocker proably carries it too.) This product goes on easy, dries in 24 hours (unless your dewpoint is over 55-60). I put on 4 coats on a coffee table. On the last I buffed with "0000" steel wool and Johnson Paste Wax. It really had a great look. While I never used this on a DR table I think it would be tough enough.
Can you remove the top so you can turn it over and experiment on the underside? You can use plywood covered with oil cloth for a few weeks while you work on the table.
I thought the finish flaking off was pretty wierd. The only project I ever had that problem with was table to go alongside the grill on the deck. The wood was cedar and the I used a spar varnish. After a year in Minnesota back yard the finish just pealed off.
Good luck! |