Because of the wood grain pattern, I'm guessing the top is veneer. If you look closely at the edge you should be able to see if it is or not.

I always strip first, especially with veneer. With veneer you have the potential for sanding through it. There is less sanding required if it is stripped first. Use the strongest stripper you are comfortable with. Strong = less time and better removal. Environmentally safe stripper = very long time and poor removal. Read the instructions and follow them. Especially if it needs to be neutralized.

Next sand. Sand with the grain starting with the center squares. If you are inexperienced, sand by hand, no machines. Start with 100 grit, then 120, 150, 180. Each successive grit should remove all the scratches from the previous grit.

I'm not sure what kind of wood it is, so the staining may require sealer. My guess from the picture is that it won't. Use a good quality stain from a dedicated paint store, not MinWax or other cheap ones from big box stores. Same goes for the finish, good quality. Sand between coats of finish with 180 grit sandpaper to remove raised grain, dust, dirt that may have gotten in the wet finish.

New sandpaper, new stain, new finish, new brush. Don't buy bargain basement junk.

If you are at all uncomfortable doing this, take it to a professional refinisher.

wow - thank you SO very much for your directions! It is especially helpful. If I look at the sides, and it is veneer, I should be able to see a layer of wood? Is that the case? If so, I think you are right - it looks veneer. Would you agree?

Also, for the base, and chairs, you typically do not use strippers on those, right? Just sand them down & stain?

Thank you again!!!

Good info from Al as always. When sanding the top, I'd suggest using a sanding block to kelp maintain a flat surface.

@Al -- what's your recommendation for a DIY finish?

For a DIY finish I would use either a good quality varnish or a brushing lacquer. Shellac is also another good finish, easily repairable, but difficult to apply if not experienced.

I make sanding blocks out of a piece of wood with 1/4" felt glued to one side. I have about 4 or 5, they always seem to disappear when I need them.

Very helpful info!

Do you have A stain product that you recommend? I stripped 6 Thomasville cherry chairs down to bare wood. samded with 180 grit and now trying to figure out best stain product. I would like to spray them and to brush them. .

@Jessica Stewart

This conversation is 6 years old. Best to start a new thread and ask your question there, and delete your comment above.