Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - refinishing a table

I have a table that was given to me partially refinished. It has a Mahogany veneer on the top, and it's made of solid wood. (unknown type) I would like to remove the stain that was applied to parts of the table (2 legs and a leaf) and give the table a "pickled" look. Is this effect possible on mahogany, how would I go about it, and will it be difficult to remove the stain that was started? Also, how can I re-affix the veneer? It's starting to come up near the opening in the middle of the table where the leaves go. ...I'm starting to wonder if it's worth all the trouble! Thanks! =)

[This message has been edited by gwynethm (edited March 03, 2000).]

As you probably already know, stripper doesn't remove much, if any, stain. You'll have to bleach the stain out. And, you'll have to bleach the entire table in order to maintain color uniformity. Sometimes ordinary household bleach will work. Most times you'll need to get a wood bleach (it's stronger) from a Home Depot or similar store.

On some older tables you can actually "iron" the veneer back in place. The glue remelts with the application of heat. Use a medium setting on an iron (no steam), and have at it. If that doesn't do the trick, you'll need to reglue. Hide glue is traditional, but regular yellow wood glue will work. You just need to be certain to apply pressure while the glue is setting up. On a table top, I'd suggest stacking books on the repair (over a piece of wax paper to keep the glue away).

A pickled finish on mahogany is different, but not impossible. go to your library and see if they can get a copy of Bob Flexnor's book on finishes. The process is a little lengthy to explain here. If you can't find the book there or at B.J. Daltons or similar book store, drop an email and I'll outline the procedure for you.

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George T.