The first step to getting a great finish on a dining table is to prepare the surface with generous sanding and leveling.  Here are some pictures of the components.  This is a high end American made dining table by prominet maker.  This table has a flame mahogany field with straight grain mahogany and satinwood banded.  This is considered a regency or banquet table. It will open to about 13 feet with three leaves.  The table has fluting around the skirt and marble size round bead carvings.  The round beads are not solid wood and are made from composite material.  These details will be finished with real gold leaf. 

  
 
 
 

Once you have a level surface and after treating the flame mahogany table with special sealers to prevent movement and moisture from rising to the surface, oil base stains can be applied to the table and wiped off after you achieve the color and richness desired. The heavier molasses material, is filler which gives the table a richer look and highlight the mahogany grain.

In this first picture below Glen, a dealer and long time friend from Long Island Exchange is applying the fill.  Long Island exchange serves most of Long Island with high end antique furniture and can finish or refinish furniture according to your own specifications. You can get great custom finishes at this antique shop.  If you go there, tell them AntiquePurveyor sent you!
 

  

 

 

Bottom of dining table and leaves should be finished as well