Stain on 50yo Jarrah Table

[Bootie]

Hi

I'm hoping there is an experienced person who can provide advice on a Jarrah table I am trying to bring back to life. It was made by a carpenter in W.A. approximately 50 years ago and has been in the one family ever since.

So far the top has been sanded lightly with a belt sander but a stain remains, it looks even more prominent now that it has been sanded back a bit (photo attached). I am not sure what this is or how deep it goes. Is there a way to fix it or should I just leave it in the garage as a work table?

Also is there a finish for heavy use that looks good on Jarrah and is easy to apply? Any other tips welcome.

Melissa

[nrb]

I would be very careful with a belt sander,quite often unless you are very careful belt sanders have a mind to gouge a bit when you stop and start them this is not seen until you put the finish on:doh:, IMO you would get a better finish using a orbital sander ending up with 240 grit.
After that danish oil would bring out the grain and patterns really nice

[Bootie]

Thanks for the tip NRB, I didn't realise this.

[rod1949]

To try and remove the stain I would use Turps. Let it soak and rub it in a bit for awhile so it can pull it out then wipe off and let dry.

As Nrb has said don't use a belt sander as they heel an toe into the timber. You might not think its happening but it is and you usually don't see it until the first coat is applied.

Do you intend to rejuvinate the whole table... big job.

As for the final protective finish (after whatever polish you use) I would have a sheet of glass cut to suit, it'll cost a bob or two but well worth it in the end.

[Bootie]

We are trying to do up the table so will give turps a go and fingers crossed :o) That glass idea sounds good too. Thanks so much.

[Hermit]

What type of final finish were you planning to use?
That stain looks like an oil-stain, so if you're using an oil finish whatever remains of the stain might well disappear by itself, or at least become far less noticeable.
(I'd still try rod1949's suggestion of turps first, though, to remove as much as possible.)

This might help, too. (I haven't read through it all yet.): - http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview/id/155482.html