Sanding Painted Wood for Refinishing: Grit Sequence for Smooth Results

Old painted wood surfaces—whether furniture, trim, or cabinets—often need refinishing. Sanding is the key to removing old paint, smoothing the surface, and preparing it for a fresh coat of paint or stain. This guide explains the grit sequence and techniques for sanding painted wood effectively.

Why Sand Painted Wood?

Sanding painted wood removes flaking paint, evens out surfaces, and creates the texture needed for new paint or stain to bond. Skipping this step risks peeling, uneven coverage, and a short-lived finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets (various grits)
• Sanding block or orbital sander
• Paint scraper (for peeling paint)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective gear (mask, gloves, safety glasses)

Best Grit Sequence for Painted Wood

• 80 grit: Removes peeling paint and heavy buildup.
• 120 grit: Smooths surfaces after paint removal.
• 180 grit: Refines scratches and evens the wood.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for a smooth, paint-ready surface.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Painted Wood

1. Prep the surface. Scrape away loose or peeling paint before sanding.
2. First sanding pass. Use 80 grit (50-pack) to strip paint and level the surface.
3. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit (25-pack) for consistent texture.
4. Refine with 180 grit. Apply 180 grit (100-pack) to remove remaining sanding marks.
5. Final sanding. Finish with 220 grit (25-pack) for a smooth surface ready for primer or paint.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth to remove all dust.
7. Prime & repaint. Apply primer first for best adhesion, then finish with your chosen paint or stain.

Special Cases

For lead-based paint on old furniture or trim, always use proper safety precautions and consider chemical stripping before sanding. For ornate trim, use folded sheets or sanding sponges for better control.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain of the wood to avoid cross scratches.
• Wet sanding with finer grits reduces dust indoors.
• Test an inconspicuous spot to check how wood looks after paint removal.

Aftercare

• Seal refinished wood with polyurethane or varnish for durability.
• Clean painted wood surfaces with mild cleaners to protect the finish.
• Re-sand lightly before any future repainting projects.

FAQs

• Do I have to remove all old paint? No, only loose or flaking paint—stable paint can be sanded smooth and primed over.
• Can I start with 120 grit instead of 80? Yes, if paint is thin and not peeling heavily.
• Will sanding damage the wood? Not if you use the correct grit sequence and light pressure.

Watch & Learn

Sanding painted wood doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right grit progression from 80 to 220, you’ll have smooth, paint-ready surfaces that look and perform like new.