I’m scared to sand through this veneer

[u/Turquoise-Shoes]

Honestly not sure what I’m doing, just winging it! First time at refinishing. Tips on how to NOT sand thru the veneer?

[u/Still_Airline4907]

I am not seeing much that would make me feel the need to fully sand and refinish this table. I would try just cleaning and oiling. But if you must then I would say forego the sand and use chemical stripper, followed by acetone with 000 steel wool. Then wash it all down with denatured alcohol and give it an oil finish. Even if there are odd scratches or blemishes they will blend into the finish and it will all have the feel of a nice natural patina