How to Sand Wooden Chairs for Refinishing and Smooth Edges (80–320 Grit)

Wooden chairs feature curves, spindles, and edges that make sanding more detailed than flat furniture. Whether painting, staining, or clear-coating, sanding is essential for a smooth, splinter-free finish. This guide covers grit sequence, tools, and pro tips for chair refinishing.

Why Sand Chairs?

Chairs take daily use—scratches, dings, and worn finishes are common. Sanding restores smoothness, removes old finishes, and ensures new coatings bond evenly. It also softens sharp edges for comfort and safety.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sanding sponges for rounded edges
• Detail sander or rotary tool for spindles
• Clamps to hold the chair steady
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–320 grit)

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Stripping heavy varnish or paint.
• 120 grit: Smoothing surfaces after stripping.
• 220 grit: Prepping bare wood for stain or primer.
• 320 grit: Final pass for silky edges before topcoats.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Stabilize the chair. Clamp or secure to prevent wobbling while sanding.
2. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) sheets for removing thick finishes.
3. Refine with 120 grit. Smooth the surface with 120 grit (50-pack) wet/dry sheets.
4. Prep with 220 grit. Even out wood grain using 220 grit (100-pack) before staining or priming.
5. Finish with 320 grit. Lightly sand spindles and edges for a smooth feel before topcoats.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with a tack cloth.
7. Apply finish. Use paint, stain, or clear coat depending on design.

Special Cases

For antique chairs, avoid coarse grits unless absolutely necessary—over-sanding may remove wood details. For painted chairs, light scuff-sanding with 220 grit may be enough for repainting.

Pro Tips

• Wrap sandpaper around dowels to sand between spindles.
• Always sand with the grain, even on curves.
• Use flexible sanding sponges for rounded arms and backs.
• Check under angled lighting for leftover gloss or scratches.

Aftercare

• Reapply protective finishes every few years depending on use.
• Dust chairs regularly with microfiber cloths.
• Use felt pads on chair legs to protect floor and finish.

FAQs

• Do I need to strip before sanding? For thick varnish, yes—otherwise, sanding alone may clog quickly.
• Can I sand chairs by hand? Yes—hand sanding is effective for curved areas and details.
• What grit is best before painting chairs? 220 grit provides the right balance of smoothness and adhesion.

Watch & Learn

Sanding chairs requires patience but ensures a professional finish. Stock up on coarse sheets, medium grits, and fine sandpapers to bring comfort and beauty back to your wooden chairs.