Understanding wood condition and how to repair
I have sought high and low for an old marble top dresser for my guest room and found one! Sick of all the wayfair furniture, I figured now was the time to learn to fix old things but I dont know what I am doing.
The dresser reeked of moth balls so I gave it light wipe down with cleaning vinegar following a light sanding. It still smells a little so I plan to do a clean on interior and exterior with mineral spirits. I then had planned to spray the interior with clear shellac and bin primer the inside of the drawers.
Following mineral spirits, I am trying to figure out how to bring back the glow in the wood and overall color on the exterior facing veneer. I was planning on using restore-a-finish (mahogany, walnut, or clear?), and follow with weed n wax. This is literally the first piece I am refinishing and I am not sure if this is the correct approach. Is lacquer or another method preferred? The dresser has beautiful tiger striping/depth and I really dont want to mess that up. Unfortunately, I think I created the moisture line in the second photo because I didnt realize someone taped chipping. I am going to fill those.
On a second note, there are some white specs in the interior that I question if they were mold. I have sanded, vinegared etc and the photo you see is what's left. Is it ok to leave the interior as-is? Is there anything easy to replace for a beginner?
I welcome all suggestions and corrections. I love this piece so much I want to it to look incredible. I have already designed the entire room around it!