Refinishing Wooden Dining Tables for a Durable, Elegant Finish (80–320 Grit Sequence)

A wooden dining table is more than just furniture—it's where families gather for meals, celebrations, and everyday conversations. Over the years, it can accumulate scratches, stains, and dull spots. By sanding and refinishing with the correct grit sequence, you can restore its original beauty and extend its lifespan. This guide walks you through the process from Grit 80 to Grit 320 for a professional-quality result.

Why Sanding is Essential for Dining Table Restoration

Sanding removes old finishes, evens out scratches, and prepares the surface for a fresh coat of stain or protective sealant. Proper sanding ensures that the final finish adheres well and looks smooth.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander for large flat areas
• Sanding block for edges and corners
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Multiple grits of sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint
• Clear protective finish
• Protective gear: mask, goggles, gloves

Best Grit Sequence for Dining Tables

• Grit 80 — Removing old finish and deep scratches
• Grit 150 — Refining the surface after coarse sanding
• Grit 220 — Pre-finish smoothing
• Grit 320 — Final sanding for a sleek, professional feel

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove all items from the table. If possible, detach the legs or base to make sanding easier. Clean thoroughly to remove dust and grease.
2. Initial sanding. Begin with Grit 80 (10-pack) to strip away old finish and remove deep scratches or dents.
3. Surface refinement. Move to Grit 150 (25-pack) to smooth out the coarse sanding marks and even out the surface.
4. Pre-finish sanding. Switch to Grit 220 (50-pack) to prepare the surface for stain or sealant, ensuring even absorption.
5. Final sanding. Finish with Grit 320 (100-pack) for a silky-smooth texture before applying the finish.
6. Dust removal. Vacuum the entire surface and wipe with a tack cloth to eliminate all dust particles.
7. Apply stain or paint. Apply in thin, even coats along the grain. Let each coat dry before applying the next for a consistent finish.
8. Protective finish. Apply polyurethane, lacquer, or oil-based finishes for durability. Lightly sand with Grit 320 between coats for a flawless surface.

Special Cases

If your dining table has an inlay or veneer, avoid aggressive sanding with Grit 80—start at Grit 150 to protect the surface details.

Pro Tips for Success

• Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches.
• Replace sandpaper as soon as it becomes less effective.
• Ensure adequate drying time between coats of stain or finish.

Aftercare

• Use placemats and coasters to protect from heat and moisture.
• Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
• Reapply protective coating every few years to maintain durability.

FAQs

• Can I refinish a dining table without removing the legs? Yes, but removing them makes sanding easier and more thorough.
• What’s the best finish for a dining table? A durable polyurethane or oil-based finish offers excellent protection from spills and scratches.

Watch & Learn

By following this grit progression—from Grit 80 (10-pack) to Grit 320 (100-pack)—you can restore your dining table to a beautiful, durable, and long-lasting finish that will serve as the centerpiece of your dining space for years.