Hi,
I picked up this coffee table that the owner said was made of oak. It is not a designer table or anything fancy - I just liked the look of it. I want to finish it in a white washed look but not sure which approach to go with. There is very little info in English on soap finish that is used in Scandinavian design. Can anyone could let me know how to actually do it? Or should I use lime wax? Or just white wash wood stain? I aim at this cool, matte, off white look with little grain still showing. Anybody have some helpful tips? 
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First you need to determine if your table is white oak or red oak.
White oak when new (or newly sanded) is very light and mellows with age. White oak could be stained light or white washed if this is what you want or left natural unfinished or waxed or oiled (it is up to you). Red oak will turn pinkish white if stained white and will look like the southwest wood color popular in the 1980's and this is closer to what is known as "pickled" finish (not really a good look).
From the photos, the top of the table shows the most wear (base/legs looks fine) and could use some updating (not always) or could be left in its vintage original condition.
Whatever you decide, you will need to seperate the top from the base to sand the table top, undersides and all surfaces of the legs and including the slats and not just what you see from the top. Sanding by hand produces the best results and If you have the skills, time and confidence, by all means knock yourself out. Bleaching the wood after sanding will produce an even lighter surface (if needed).
Otherwise, conserve the table by just doing the least intervention and enjoy it for what it is.
Also, public libraries have a selection of how to books when it comes to prepping and refinishing/whie washing furniture or like most people these days, just watch someone do it on you tube.
If you need any help, please contact us at – info@designaddict.com