Refinish Wooden Tabletop with 120, 400, and 3000 Grit Wet Sanding (Natural Oil Finish)

Water rings, light scratches, and dullness can ruin the beauty of a wooden tabletop. With a strategic sanding sequence—120, 400, and 3000 grit—you can bring back the wood’s natural luster without heavy chemical stripping. This method works for solid hardwood and veneer surfaces.

Why This Method Works

120 grit removes surface damage and old finish, 400 grit smooths and preps for oiling, and 3000 grit produces a silky surface that absorbs oil evenly for a professional, low-sheen look.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 120 grit (50-pack), 400 grit (25-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack)
• Foam sanding block
• Spray bottle with water + mild dish soap
• Microfiber cloths
• Natural penetrating oil (tung, Danish, or linseed)

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Strip away old finish and level surface. (50-pack)
• 400 grit: Smooth surface before applying oil. (25-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish surface for a silky hand feel. (25-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Wipe the tabletop clean. Mask off edges if needed.
2. Initial sanding. Using 120 grit sandpaper, sand along the grain to remove damage and old finish.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 400 grit to refine the surface and prepare for oiling.
4. Final sanding. With 3000 grit, lightly burnish the wood to close pores slightly and enhance oil absorption.
5. Finish. Apply natural oil with a lint-free cloth, let soak, then buff for a uniform sheen.

Special Considerations

For veneer, avoid aggressive sanding with 120 grit—use light pressure to prevent breakthrough.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Apply oil in thin, even coats for best results.
• Use 3000 grit dry for a subtle burnished look or wet for a softer sheen.

Aftercare

• Re-oil surface every 6–12 months to maintain appearance.
• Clean with a damp microfiber cloth—avoid harsh cleaners.

FAQs

• Can I skip 400 grit? Not recommended—400 grit ensures oil penetrates evenly.
• Will 3000 grit make it too shiny? No—on wood, it produces a satin to low-gloss finish.
• Can I use polyurethane instead of oil? Yes, but adjust sanding to end at 400–600 grit before coating.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper set and make your tabletop restoration project simple and satisfying.