Refinish Wooden Nightstand with 120, 320, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

A worn nightstand can be brought back to life with the right sanding process. Using 120, 320, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can strip old finishes, smooth the surface, and prepare it for a beautiful new coat of paint or varnish.

Why This Method Works

120 grit removes old coatings and surface imperfections. 320 grit smooths the wood for consistent finish application. 3000 grit burnishes the surface for a polished, touch-friendly feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 120 grit (100-pack), 320 grit (25-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Paint, stain, or clear varnish

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Strip old finish and level imperfections. (100-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth surface for an even finish. (25-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a refined touch. (25-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove drawers and hardware, then clean all surfaces.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 120 grit sandpaper to strip the old finish and level the surface.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to prepare the wood for finish.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit sandpaper for a silky, polished feel.
5. Finish application. Apply paint, stain, or clear coat, letting each coat dry fully before adding another.

Special Considerations

For nightstands with intricate trim, use hand sanding for detailed areas to preserve design features.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid swirl marks.
• Vacuum thoroughly before each new grit to prevent scratches.
• Apply two to three thin coats of finish for durability.

Aftercare

• Dust regularly with a soft microfiber cloth.
• Use coasters or mats to protect the surface from spills.

FAQs

• Can I skip 320 grit? No—jumping from 120 to 3000 grit leaves visible scratches.
• Will 3000 grit make the nightstand too shiny? No—it will create a smooth feel without excessive gloss unless paired with high-gloss finish.
• Does this method work on MDF nightstands? Yes—just use light pressure with coarse grits.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and give your nightstand a fresh, professional-grade finish.