How to Sand Wooden Tables for Refinishing and Restoration (80–400 Grit)

Whether restoring an antique dining table or giving new life to a coffee table, sanding is the key to a flawless finish. The right grit sequence removes old coatings, smooths scratches, and preps the surface for stain, paint, or clear finish.

Why Sand Tables?

Tables endure constant wear—scratches, spills, and heat marks. Sanding evens out the surface, eliminates damage, and ensures new finishes adhere smoothly. Without sanding, imperfections remain visible and finishes may peel or blotch.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for large flat surfaces
• Detail sander or sanding sponge for corners
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–400 grit)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Respirator mask and goggles

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Removing old finish, varnish, or paint.
• 120 grit: General smoothing after stripping.
• 220 grit: Prepping bare wood for stain or primer.
• 320–400 grit: Final sanding before topcoats for a silky surface.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Clean the table. Remove dirt, wax, or residue before sanding.
2. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) sheets to strip finishes and smooth deep scratches.
3. Refine with 120 grit. Smooth surfaces with 120 grit (50-pack) wet/dry sheets.
4. Prep with 220 grit. Sand evenly with 220 grit (100-pack) before staining or priming.
5. Finish smooth. For clear finishes or high-gloss paints, lightly sand with 400 grit (10-pack) before applying topcoats.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust, then wipe with tack cloth.
7. Apply finish. Use stain, paint, or polyurethane depending on design.

Special Cases

For veneer tables, avoid coarse grits like 80 unless absolutely necessary—veneer is thin and easy to sand through. For rustic tables, stopping at 220 grit may preserve a more natural texture.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to prevent cross-scratches.
• Use sanding sponges for rounded edges and table legs.
• Apply even pressure—uneven sanding leaves dips visible under finish.
• Test stain on a hidden section before finishing the entire table.

Aftercare

• Protect the finish with coasters and placemats.
• Clean with mild soap and water only.
• Reapply protective coatings every few years for durability.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? Only if refinishing with stain or clear coat. For repainting, scuff sanding may be enough.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes, but orbital sanders save time on large surfaces.
• Should I wet sand tables? Only at higher grits (320–400) for ultra-smooth finishes.

Watch & Learn

Sanding tables restores beauty and prepares them for long-lasting finishes. Stock up on coarse sheets, medium grits, and fine sandpapers for your next refinishing project.