Hi All
dkeller made some good points, and the customer has the finial word here, and the pay check.I'm not sure what look you are going for here but this is what I do.
First, I use oak, but maple is ok.More of an English tradition.After built, I lightly sandblast the edges to simulate ware.Lightly sand any edges to remove splinters or sharp edges. Fill any tear-outs or other blemishes I don't like, then stain.For fillers I use two different types.For small holes and scratches I use [ FIX WOOD PATCH 1-800 624-7767 OSI Sealants Inc ],this stuff is made by the Co. that makes PL 200 adhesive. The Wood Patch is acetone based and will dry in minutes and is made of wood shavings. It does take stain but usually a lighter shade. depending how you sand it , it will change the tone. And, it doesn't shrink much.Not to be used on deep holes unless it's layered to allow to dry.It is available in a few colors.Different effects can be made by not mixing and using the vehicle to glaze the surface.You will understand when you open the can.
The other is [Quik Wood --Polymeric Systems Inc 610-286-2500]. This stuff is more on the epoxy side but will fill large gaps, can be formed into carvings or missing edges.It also takes stain on the lighter side depending on sanding.
I don't use Pore-pac often but it is on the shelf.
All fillers require extra work to blend but 30+yrs of testing has lead me here. This is where French Patching comes in,ether by finger tip or brush these repairs can easily be covered.
Next I tone or glaze the edges.
As for the finish, with kids in the house,Shellac as a base coat, then French Patch blemishes out [fillers]. Then top coat with Lacquer, Not the Pre. Cat. Lacquer. The reason for this, lacquer is easy to repair. Water rings can be removed with an aerosol. Remember, I repair finishes,so I try not to use things that are hard to fix.
So at this point, you have a table that looks and feels old but that glossy finish looks odd. Next I use a small wire looped pad to burnish the surface, then fine brass wool, a little pumice, Murphy's oil soap, and water to finish the look. Nothing to it, Right?
Keep in mind,finding chemicals that work,or that you can work with,is a life long task. Roughly 75% of the chemicals out there are junk. And the good companys are disappearing far too often. Remember Star Chem. Co.,Bix Co., and when you could get Lacquer based stain just about anywhere?
Do good Work Randy