If it has no varnish, light sand then oil. If varnished very good sand using a electric sander, medium first sand then finer the second sand, wipe down to get all dust off then oil. If you use a combo of linseed and turpentine make sure you use gum turpentine. Use more turpentine to start off as will penetrate the wood better. Good luck

We finished our antique island bench, which was originally the haberdashery counter from David Jones in Newcastle, with a burnishing oil. The surface proudly bears the markers of it's history as the timber was too soft and thin to strip back any further than we have, but the burnishing process has protected it from every day wear and tear including water spills and the rough and tumble that our four boys dish out to every piece of furniture in the house, it also gives it a beautiful shine. We have finished our dining room table the same way. Kitchen dresser and the sides of the island bench that don't get the same use are finished with beeswax.

What a beautiful room, table is great, I love transparent furniture also it could work well with your room, I can imagine it with your table but a more luxe look could be stainless to blend with benchtops or leather or be brave and mix it up for a more contemporary look, depends on the style you are after, fab room

Try the Amazon Australia site. If placemats only come in sets of 4, then purchase two sets. Love the colours in the placemats Kate has shared.