Best Sandpaper Grit for Stripping Old Paint from Furniture

Old, peeling paint can make furniture look dated and neglected. Stripping it down to bare wood is the first step in refinishing and restoring its beauty. The right sandpaper grit makes all the difference. eQualle 9x11 inch sandpaper sheets are designed for wet or dry use and deliver consistent performance when tackling stubborn paint layers.

Why Sand Instead of Using Chemicals?

While chemical strippers work, they can be messy, smelly, and hazardous. Sanding is safer, gives you more control, and allows you to prepare the surface in one process—removing paint and smoothing wood simultaneously.

Best Grits for Paint Stripping

• 60–80 grit: Heavy removal of old paint and varnish.
• 120 grit: Secondary pass to smooth scratches left by coarse grits.
• 220 grit: Final prep before staining, priming, or painting.

Step-by-Step: Stripping Paint with Sandpaper Sheets

1. Prep the surface. Clean furniture to remove dirt and oils that clog sandpaper.
2. Start coarse. Use 80 grit (50-pack) to aggressively remove paint layers.
3. Smooth transition. Switch to 120 grit (25-pack) to eliminate deep sanding marks.
4. Final finish. Use 220 grit (100-pack) to prepare for stain or paint application.
5. Clean thoroughly. Wipe dust away with a tack cloth before applying any finish.

Special Cases

For antiques, be gentle—over-sanding can remove character and reduce value. For thick multiple paint layers, consider starting with 60 grit instead of 80 for faster removal.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the wood grain to avoid cross-scratches.
• Replace clogged sheets often to maintain cutting power.
• Use a sanding block for flat surfaces and folded sheets for details.
• Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a dust mask for safety.

Aftercare

• Vacuum dust thoroughly before applying primer or stain.
• Store unused sandpaper sheets flat in a dry place.
• Lightly sand between coats of finish with 220 grit for best results.

FAQs

• Can I just paint over old paint? No—without sanding, the new paint may peel quickly.
• Is 60 grit too coarse? It’s effective for thick paint layers but follow up with finer grits.
• Do I need power tools? Not always—hand sanding gives better control for detailed furniture.

Watch & Learn

eQualle sandpaper sheets come in the full grit range for furniture refinishing. From 80 grit for stripping to 220 grit for final prep, you’ll have everything you need. Shop wood sanding sandpaper today.