Any upcycling/DIY enthusiasts?

[thewheelers]

Just got this sideboard for a tenner and I'm thrilled with the shape and design of it!

The top obviously needs repair. Would you strip the whole thing back? Wax or oil?

Will probably replace the handles and maybe remove the middle door to leave an open section.

Sorry forgot to add pic

Is that actually solid wood? Struggling to tell from the photo but the way the top has peeled back looks more like a veneer?

If it's solid wood then your choice of wax or oil depends on the finish you want, and maintenance. What about wood stain? Translucent but you can get a gloss or semi-gloss finish, or matt if you want.

If it's a veneer that complicates matters. How deep is the damage? Wax/oil is for solid wood. If you had an OK base you could maybe varnish or stain, but you might need to replace the top veneer. Depends how much is left/ what state it's in.

Or there's paint if you can sand to a smooth, stable base.

How do I tell if it's wood or veneer?

Sorry if that sounds stupid!