Thanks, I hadn't thought of that...I think I will.  I am just waiting for some nice weather to get to work!

Wow it's so adorable! It would make a great mini bookcase, if you put a little shelve in the um... foot hole?  However I have shelving on the brain currently.

Hey, thanks for the comment....I did peel off the old veneer...stupid me thought it would come right off...NOT.  Most of the pieces that were pulling up came off in strips and were on the narrow fronts, so it may not be noticable in the end.  I think I am going to use the filler to just smooth it out and sand....Thanks for the comments though...I will definetly check out the bondo link.

Hi Upstate,

You could try wood filler.  If you're planning to refinish as in strip, stain and urethane, the areas where you've applied the wood filler will come out a different color.  Paint would probably be a better option. 

Give the entire piece a good all over sanding to remove any loose paint and to scuff the surface to prep for priming.  Use carpenter's glue to re-attach any loose veneer.  If possible, use clamps to hold the veneer in place until the glue dries.  Then, fill any voids with wood filler.  Some wood fillers aren't sandable, so choose carefully.  Wipe the surface again before priming and painting.

As an alternative to wood filler, you might want to try 'bondo'.  Yes, typically it is for autobody repairs, but they also make bondo for home solutions.  Here's a link:

Bondo Home Solutions

You've probably already thought about it, but just in case, don't forget about new hardware.

Hope this helps,

Suzy