I apologize in advance: A similar question has probably been asked on
this list, but I have not been able to find a good search query for
it.

1. I have an old pedestal oak table, and I guess the finish is
lacquer, shellac or veneer. There are two spots about a half inch in
diameter where the finish is completely gone, down to wood. About 15
years ago when I was away food dropped onto the table and was not
cleaned up. When I returned one or two weeks later, the finish had
been eaten away. Does that give information as to what the finish is?

The finish is a yellow/gold color. By now I suppose I have to sand to
get to clean wood.

How can I repair the finish in just these two spots, matching the
color?

Also, two leaves are being made for it. How to finish them, trying to
match the finish on the table?

2. I have an oak veneer coffee table, finish looks like on the other
table. There is a patch about a square inch where the finish has been
scratched off (looks as though it was done with a paint scraper) but
the scrape didn't go past the veneer. How can I repair just this
patch, matching the color?

Also, this table has several small drips of paint, various colors.
Latex, I think. Any thought about removing them?

1.Spill a bit of vodka on it and see if the finish dissolves. If so,
it's shellac and will be fairly easy to fix.

2. Take the spots of paint off with a cabinet scraper or razor blade.

djb

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Is it time to change my sig line yet?