How to Refinish a Wooden Desk for a Smooth, Professional Surface (80, 120, 180, 220, 320 Grit Guide)

Whether you're restoring an antique desk or upgrading a thrift store find, proper sanding is the key to achieving a flawless finish. The 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs, Hook & Loop, Assorted Grit (50-Pack) include all the grits you need—80, 120, 180, 220, and 320—to transform your desk into a beautiful, durable work surface.

Why Sanding is Crucial for Desk Refinishing

Sanding removes old finish, smooths imperfections, and preps the wood to accept stain or paint evenly. Following the proper grit sequence ensures each step builds on the last, preventing visible scratches in the final product.

Tools & Materials

• Assorted Grit Sanding Discs (80, 120, 180, 220, 320 grit)
• Random orbital sander
• Vacuum or dust extraction system
• Tack cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or clear coat
• Brushes or rags

Grit-by-Grit Process

• 80 Grit: Strips away old finish, varnish, or paint, and levels damaged areas.
• 120 Grit: Smooths rough sanding marks and begins refining the surface.
• 180 Grit: Creates a consistent texture for even stain or paint application.
• 220 Grit: Prepares the wood for a smooth final finish with improved adhesion.
• 320 Grit: Polishes the surface for a silky touch before applying the topcoat.

Step-by-Step: Refinishing a Wooden Desk

1. Prep the Workspace: Remove drawers, hardware, and protect surrounding areas with drop cloths.
2. Start with 80 Grit: Sand evenly to remove old finish and correct surface flaws.
3. Switch to 120 Grit: Smooth out marks from coarse sanding and refine flat surfaces.
4. Refine with 180 Grit: Even out the grain and prepare the surface for fine sanding.
5. Use 220 Grit: Achieve a smooth, finish-ready surface.
6. Final Pass with 320 Grit: Lightly polish for the ultimate smoothness before finishing.
7. Clean Thoroughly: Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust.
8. Apply Finish: Stain, paint, or clear coat according to the manufacturer’s directions, allowing adequate drying between coats.

Pro Tips for Desk Restoration

• Sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• For detailed areas or carvings, hand-sand to maintain shape and definition.
• Test your finish on a hidden section to check color and texture before applying to the entire desk.
• Apply two or more coats of protective finish for added durability.

Aftercare

• Clean with a soft cloth and mild cleaner—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Use desk pads or coasters to protect from scratches and spills.
• Reapply protective finish as needed depending on use.

FAQs

• Can I sand veneer desks? Yes, but use light pressure and avoid over-sanding to prevent going through the veneer.
• Should I skip any grits? No—each grit step removes marks from the previous one for a flawless finish.
• Will these discs work for metal parts? Yes, select the grit based on the type of prep needed for metal surfaces.

Watch the Process

By following the full grit sequence with the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs (50-Pack), you can transform any wooden desk into a smooth, stylish, and functional centerpiece.