Refinish Wooden Dining Table with 80, 400, and 1500 Grit Sandpaper

Dining tables are the centerpiece of many homes, but constant use can lead to scratches, watermarks, and a dull finish. Using 80, 400, and 1500 grit sandpaper, you can strip away damage and restore a beautiful, smooth surface.

Why This Method Works

80 grit removes old finish and deep imperfections. 400 grit smooths the surface for uniform stain or paint absorption. 1500 grit burnishes the wood for a refined, professional touch before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 80 grit (25-pack), 400 grit (50-pack), 1500 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander and sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Strip old coatings and damage. (25-pack)
• 400 grit: Smooth for finish application. (50-pack)
• 1500 grit: Burnish for a refined surface. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Clear the table and clean off debris and dirt.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 80 grit sandpaper to remove the old finish and level deep scratches.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 400 grit sandpaper to refine the surface.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 1500 grit sandpaper for a silky, professional-grade finish.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the table, letting each coat dry completely before the next.

Special Considerations

For tables with intricate edges or inlays, use hand sanding to preserve fine details.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid cross-scratches.
• Vacuum between grit changes to keep dust from scratching the surface.
• Use multiple thin coats of finish for the most durable results.

Aftercare

• Use placemats and coasters to protect the surface.
• Dust and clean regularly with a soft cloth.

FAQs

• Can I skip 400 grit? No—jumping from 80 to 1500 grit will leave sanding marks.
• Will 1500 grit make the table glossy? Gloss comes from the topcoat, not sanding grit alone.
• Does this work on painted tables? Yes—80 grit will remove paint before smoothing with finer grits.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and give your dining table a fresh, like-new finish.