Sanding Wooden Tables for a Flawless Finish (80, 120, 220, 320 Grit Guide)

Dining and coffee tables are focal points of the home, but daily use leaves them with scratches, dents, and worn finishes. Sanding a table before refinishing or painting is the most important step in bringing back its beauty. With the right grit sequence, you can achieve a professional-quality surface at home.

Why Sand Tables?

Tables often accumulate damage from spills, heat, and heavy use. Sanding removes old coatings, levels imperfections, and opens the wood grain for stain or paint to adhere properly. Skipping sanding leads to blotchy finishes and reduced durability.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for large flat surfaces
• Sanding sponge or block for edges
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective mask and safety glasses
• Assorted wood sanding sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Table Refinishing

• 80 grit (50-pack) — Removes old finish, stains, and scratches.
• 120 grit (25-pack) — Smooths rough sanding marks and evens the surface.
• 220 grit (100-pack) — Prepares wood for stain or primer.
• 320 grit (25-pack) — Final sanding for a smooth, finish-ready surface.

Step-by-Step: Sanding a Wooden Table

1. Clean the surface. Remove dust, dirt, and any sticky residue.
2. Strip with 80 grit. Use 80 grit sandpaper on an orbital sander to remove old finish and scratches.
3. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit sheets to even out the surface.
4. Refine with 220 grit. Apply 220 grit sheets for a fine, paint- or stain-ready finish.
5. Finish with 320 grit. Use 320 grit sandpaper to achieve a silky, professional finish.
6. Vacuum and wipe. Remove dust completely before applying finish.

Special Cases

• Softwoods: Avoid over-sanding with coarse grits to prevent gouging.
• Hardwoods: May require extra sanding time at finer grits for best results.
• Antique tables: Sand lightly to preserve original details and value.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain for an even finish.
• Use sanding sponges for legs and carved details.
• Apply even pressure to avoid dips or uneven spots.

Aftercare

• Seal tables with polyurethane, varnish, or oil to protect the wood.
• Clean with mild soap and avoid harsh chemicals.
• Re-sand lightly every few years to refresh the finish.

FAQs

• Can I sand without removing the old finish? Only if repainting with a bonding primer, but full sanding gives best results.
• Do I need to sand between coats of finish? Yes, a light pass with 320 grit improves adhesion and smoothness.
• How long does sanding a table take? Typically 2–4 hours depending on size and condition.

Watch & Learn

Sanding is the foundation of a flawless table refinish. Stock up on wood sanding sheets and bring your furniture back to life with a smooth, professional finish.