How to Sand Wooden Chairs Before Refinishing (80, 120, 180, 220 Grit Guide)

Wooden chairs often feature curves, spindles, and detailed edges that make sanding more challenging than flat furniture pieces. Proper sanding ensures smoothness, even stain absorption, and a professional-looking finish. This guide explains how to sand chairs step by step using 80, 120, 180, and 220 grit sandpaper.

Why Sanding Chairs Matters

Chairs endure constant use and wear, leaving scratches, dents, and old coatings. Sanding removes these imperfections and preps surfaces for new paint or stain. Skipping sanding can result in uneven finishes and poor adhesion.

Tools You’ll Need

• 80–220 grit sandpaper – coarse to fine for complete refinishing.
• Sanding sponges – ideal for curves, legs, and spindles.
• Orbital sander – speeds up sanding on flat seat surfaces.
• Detail sander or folded sheets – for tight corners.
• Tack cloth & vacuum – to clean between sanding stages.

Best Grit Sequence for Chairs

• 80 grit: Removes old finishes and rough damage.
• 120 grit: Smooths surfaces after coarse sanding.
• 180 grit: Refines surface and prepares for finish.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for a smooth, paint- or stain-ready finish.

Step-by-Step Chair Sanding

1. Start with 80 grit. Strip away paint or varnish using 80 grit (50-pack).
2. Smooth with 120 grit. Refine chair legs and spindles using 120 grit (25-pack).
3. Refine with 180 grit. Prepare the surface for stain with 180 grit (25-pack).
4. Finish with 220 grit. Create a silky, finish-ready surface with 220 grit (100-pack).
5. Clean thoroughly. Remove dust with a vacuum and tack cloth before finishing.

Special Cases

For antique chairs, avoid aggressive sanding to preserve details—start at 120 grit. For chairs with intricate carvings, use sanding sponges or detail tools. Veneered chairs require caution—don’t sand below 150 grit to protect the veneer.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain, especially on curved arms and legs.
• Fold sandpaper for easier access to grooves and carvings.
• Replace sheets often—chair details wear out sandpaper quickly.
• Prime or condition wood immediately after sanding for best results.

Aftercare

• Dust and wipe chairs regularly to protect finishes.
• Reapply protective coatings every few years.
• Repair scratches by sanding lightly with 220 grit and touching up the finish.

FAQs

• Do I need to strip paint before sanding chairs? Not always—80 grit can handle most finishes.
• What grit should I stop at before staining? 180–220 grit ensures even stain absorption.
• Can I sand chairs by hand? Yes—hand sanding is often best for detailed spindles and carvings.

Watch & Learn

For reliable furniture refinishing, explore our wood sanding sandpaper collection.