1. The first thing you need to do is sand the table to get all the blemishes out. I suggest using 60 grit sandpaper first and then utilize 100 grit sandpaper to make sure the wood is smooth and blemish free. I do not suggest using a sander because of the power is contains, it is much better to just do it by hand for the first couple times.
2. Just like you did in the last step you have to utilize a finer grit sandpaper in order to get the wood even smoother. I recommend going to 200 and then a final time using 600 grit. The best place to find 600 grit sandpaper is at a hardware store because most other stores will not carry things like that.
3. After you have done the final sanding you'll want to use something in order to fill any mistakes or holes that you may have created, I would recommend a decent wood putty that can be stained. I suggest asking a store worker what the best wood putties are because there're many different types and you do not want to get one that will not suffice.
4. After you have filled the holes or blemishes you will want to smooth out those spots by sanding in order to get them ready for the next step.
5. To stain the wood you will have to apply the stain making sure you put it on in the same direction as the wood goes and once dry you have to softly scuff the stain or treatment with 600 grit sandpaper and stain again. You will do this 2 times.
6. Once you finish step 5 it is imperative that you don't scuff the stain after this last time. Make sure you don't scratch the treatment now because it'll be extremely noticeable now.
7. Now that you have done this it's time for you to apply a sealer and complete your renewal process of your recently used coffee table and now new coffee table.
The way I started was by getting a collection of small coffee tables and practicing on them before I moved onto starting on larger projects.