Sanding Wooden Chairs Before Refinishing: Grit Guide for Smooth, Even Finishes

Wooden chairs are everyday essentials, but scratches, worn finishes, and dents can make them look tired. Refinishing restores their beauty, but sanding is the foundation for long-lasting results. This guide covers the grit sequence and process for sanding chairs before refinishing.

Why Sand Chairs Before Refinishing?

Sanding removes old finishes, smooths splinters, and opens the wood grain for stain, paint, or clear sealer. Without sanding, finishes may appear uneven or fail to bond properly.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets in multiple grits
• Sanding sponges for curved edges and legs
• Detail sander or folded sheets for spindles
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Protective gear (mask, gloves, safety glasses)

Best Grit Sequence for Chairs

• 100 grit: Removes old finish and rough areas.
• 150 grit: Smooths the surface and blends scratches.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for consistent, finish-ready surfaces.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Chairs for Refinishing

1. Prep the chair. Remove cushions or upholstery. Clean thoroughly.
2. First sanding pass. Use 100 grit (50-pack) to strip finishes and level imperfections.
3. Smooth with 150 grit. Switch to 150 grit (100-pack) for even texture.
4. Final sanding. Apply 220 grit (25-pack) for stain, paint, or sealant prep.
5. Detail sanding. Use sponges or folded sheets for spindles, arms, and carved sections.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with a tack cloth.
7. Apply finish. Stain for natural grain, or paint for color, then seal for protection.

Special Cases

For antique chairs with ornate details, sand lightly with fine grits to avoid losing character. For outdoor chairs, use exterior-grade stain or paint after sanding.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for smoother results.
• Don’t oversand—finishes need slight texture to bond well.
• Lightly sand between coats of finish with 320 grit for ultra-smooth surfaces.

Aftercare

• Let finishes cure fully before using the chairs.
• Clean with mild soap and water only—avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Reapply protective finishes every few years for durability.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand if using chalk paint? Yes—light sanding ensures better adhesion and smoother results.
• Can I skip 150 grit? Not recommended—150 grit helps create a smoother transition between coarse and fine sanding.
• What if my chair has deep gouges? Fill with wood filler before the final sanding pass.

Watch & Learn

Sanding wooden chairs before refinishing ensures professional results and long-lasting finishes. Stock up on 100 to 220 grit sandpaper sheets for your next chair project.