renovating the antique tables project, page-12

I never fail to be astonished by the wealth of excellent tips and information that comes from HC members.
Hats off to all of you, it is all greatly appreciated.
I will go so far as to save your posts to a word doc. for future reference. It beats searching back through the threads looking for the gems.

As for the black marks, I painted it on to cover up some former marks. I started off with fine black lines to match the grains, and timber, then I liked the look, but it went too far.
I understand some people like the wear and tear marks, but that idea is a little foreign to me, at least in these early days of the learning process.

cazzez had a good idea to darken the whole table, but I really do like the golden tones, for whatever reason I am drawn to those colours. It is interesting, my daughter also had a collection of Japanese style furniture in her house, which is also very dark in colour.

Searching the internet I have seen a huge array of colours and styles, especially apparent when they use recycled timbers and retain all the wear and tear marks.
I would prefer to do the right thing and retain the best features of each individual table.
Honestly, I am thoroughly enjoying this new interest, and the appeal is also in the rescue to make beautiful pieces appealing again.
I will appreciate all the help I can get. I am considering that if I am successful, that I can donate the tables to my local charity to raise funds.
Oncew again, thank you so much for the excellent advice.
cheers