How to Sand Wooden Desks for Refinishing (80–320 Grit)

Wooden desks are daily-use furniture pieces that often develop scratches, stains, and worn finishes. Sanding prepares desks for repainting, staining, or sealing, restoring both function and aesthetics.

Why Sand Desks?

Sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and ensures new coatings bond properly. A well-sanded desk surface looks professional and feels smooth to the touch, perfect for workspaces.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for large desktop areas
• Sanding sponges for drawers, legs, and trim
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–320 grit)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Mask, goggles, gloves

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Removing old paint, varnish, or deep scratches.
• 120 grit: General smoothing after coarse sanding.
• 220 grit: Preparing bare wood for stain or primer.
• 320 grit: Final sanding for a refined surface.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare the desk. Remove drawers, hardware, and accessories before sanding.
2. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip finishes and rough areas.
3. Refine with 120 grit. Smooth surfaces evenly using 120 grit (50-pack).
4. Prep with 220 grit. Sand desktops and drawer fronts with 220 grit (100-pack) before applying finish.
5. Finish with 320 grit. Use 320 grit (25-pack) for a silky-smooth surface.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe down surfaces with tack cloths.
7. Apply finish. Choose stain, paint, or sealer depending on your desired look.

Special Cases

For veneer desks, avoid grits below 120 to prevent sanding through thin layers. For antique desks, use fine grits (150–320) to maintain the character of the wood while refreshing the surface.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for the best results.
• Use sanding sponges to contour to detailed edges.
• Prime before painting for maximum adhesion.
• Work in sections to maintain consistency.

Aftercare

• Clean desks regularly with a soft cloth.
• Use desk pads to prevent scratches from daily use.
• Reapply protective finishes every few years.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? Yes, if staining. For repainting, scuff sanding may be enough.
• Can I sand desks by hand? Yes—hand sanding works well for drawers and detailed trim.
• What grit is best before painting? 220 grit gives the ideal texture for primer adhesion.

Watch & Learn

Sanding desks restores their professional look and makes them ready for years of use. Stock up on coarse sheets, medium grits, and fine sandpapers to complete your next desk refinishing project.