How to Sand Wood Furniture for a Smooth Refinish

Refinishing wood furniture is one of the best DIY projects for breathing new life into old pieces. The secret to a professional-looking result is sanding correctly. This guide explains the grit sequence, tools, and techniques to prep your furniture for paint, stain, or clear coat.

Why Sand Furniture?

Sanding removes old finishes, scratches, and dents while creating a smooth surface for coatings to bond. Skipping sanding often leads to uneven stain absorption, peeling paint, or visible blemishes.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for large flat areas
• Hand sanding block for corners and details
• 9x11 in sandpaper sheets (wet or dry use)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective gear: dust mask and goggles

Best Grit Sequence for Furniture

• 80 grit: Strips thick finishes and smooths rough spots.
• 150 grit: Refines the surface after heavy sanding.
• 220 grit: Final smoothing for a paint- or stain-ready finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Furniture

1. Inspect the piece. Look for dents, scratches, or uneven finishes.
2. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip old coatings and level rough surfaces.
3. Smooth with 150 grit. Apply 150 grit (50-pack) for refining scratches and preparing bare wood.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Use 220 grit (100-pack) for a silky surface ready for stain or paint.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with a tack cloth.
6. Apply coatings. Prime, stain, or seal depending on your project goals.

Special Cases

For antique furniture, avoid overly aggressive sanding to preserve details. Veneered furniture should be sanded lightly with 150–220 grit to avoid cutting through the thin surface.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to prevent visible scratches.
• Change sandpaper often—clogged sheets reduce effectiveness.
• Test stain or paint on a hidden area before applying to the entire piece.

Aftercare

• Dust furniture regularly to preserve the finish.
• Use coasters and pads to protect the surface from scratches.
• Reapply protective coatings when surfaces show wear.

FAQs

• Can I sand without removing all old finish? Yes—light sanding with 220 grit is often enough for repainting.
• Do I need to sand between coats? Light sanding with 320 grit between coats improves adhesion and smoothness.
• What if my furniture has carvings? Use sanding sponges or folded sheets to reach intricate areas.

Watch & Learn

Upgrade your refinishing projects with eQualle’s 9x11 in sandpaper sheets, designed for wet or dry use. Available in 25, 50, and 100 packs. Shop furniture sanding sheets here.