Refinish Wooden Dining Table with 120, 360, and 2000 Grit Sandpaper

Dining tables endure daily use, spills, and scratches. Using 120, 360, and 2000 grit sandpaper, you can strip old finish, smooth the surface, and prepare it for a flawless, long-lasting topcoat.

Why This Method Works

120 grit removes the old coating and surface imperfections. 360 grit smooths the wood for even stain or finish absorption. 2000 grit burnishes the surface for a refined, professional feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 120 grit (50-pack), 360 grit (25-pack), 2000 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, oil, or polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Remove old finish and level the surface. (50-pack)
• 360 grit: Smooth for finish application. (25-pack)
• 2000 grit: Burnish for a silky, refined touch. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Clear the table and clean thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 120 grit sandpaper to strip the old finish and even out imperfections.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 360 grit sandpaper to refine the surface before final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 2000 grit sandpaper for a smooth, professional-grade feel.
5. Apply finish. Stain, oil, or polyurethane the table, allowing each coat to dry fully before applying the next.

Special Considerations

For tables with decorative inlays, use light pressure and hand sanding to avoid damage.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to prevent visible scratches.
• Vacuum and wipe between grit changes for a cleaner finish.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for durability.

Aftercare

• Use placemats and coasters to protect the surface.
• Dust regularly with a soft cloth to maintain the finish.

FAQs

• Can I skip 360 grit? No—going from 120 directly to 2000 grit will leave sanding marks.
• Will 2000 grit make the table slippery? No—it creates smoothness without excessive gloss unless paired with a high-gloss finish.
• Does this method work on veneer? Yes—just use light pressure with coarse grits.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and bring your dining table back to its original beauty.