Burn mark on cherry table

[billy d]

I would like to remove a circular burn mark, approximately 1 1/2 inch diameter, from a solid cherry table top. The table is rather old, and I am not sure what finish, or combination of finishes, it has received over its lifetime. It appears to have some sort of varnish over the raw wood, with oil or wax finish(es) over that. As a last resort I may have to sand down the entire top (approx. 22" x 60"), but have tried a localized repair by lightly sanding a 3" square area with 220 paper to see how deep the burn goes. I have taken the surface down about 1/32" which partially (but not totally) reduced the visibility of the burn mark. I am reluctant to go further and may already have taken too much. Having done this, whether it was or was not advisable, is there now any way to finish the 3" square sanded area to match the adjacent finish?

[ozwinner]

Hi Billy and welcome

I think you have answered your own question, I think youll have to sand back the whole table top.
If you dont, youll have a patch that will look different for ever.

Al