I picked up this gate-legged drop leaf dining room table at a tag sale in Branford, CT. The garage and shed were loaded with tools and many pieces of furniture. I almost walked past the table as it was underneath some boxes of rusty nails. The family was in the process of cleaning out the house and I was able to get the table for $10.00. I know - a steal. (This is a picture of the "before") Sorry about the sun glare.
I thought it would make the perfect "apartment sized" kitchen table, or maybe a work station. It looked so cute all folded up! It is seriously heavy though. Not sure I'd like to lug it up to a second floor apartment.
The legs were in really good shape with a sturdy base.
I began to sand the veneer top lightly using 3M stripping sandpaper, being careful to remove a few stains and scuff marks.
After the top was sanded, I applied a soft, damp cloth to remove the remaining dust and check for spots that needed to be touched up. I haven't decided whether to stain the top or just seal it, but here it is.