How to Sand Wooden Desks Before Refinishing

Wooden desks see years of daily use, from writing and studying to computers and office work. Scratches, stains, and worn finishes can make them look old and tired. Sanding is the first and most important step before refinishing to restore smoothness and prepare the surface for paint, stain, or oil. This guide explains how to sand desks correctly for professional results.

Why Desk Sanding Matters

Desks have large flat surfaces and detailed edges. Without proper sanding, finishes won’t adhere evenly, leading to blotchy stains or peeling paint. Correct sanding ensures smooth writing surfaces and a finish that lasts.

Tools You’ll Need

• Random orbital sander for desktops
• Sanding blocks and sponges for edges and corners
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–220 grit)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Primer, stain, or oil finish

Best Grit Sequence for Desks

• 80 grit: Removes old finish, scratches, and stains.
• 150 grit: Smooths surfaces and prepares for finer sanding.
• 220 grit: Final prep for stain, paint, or clear coat.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Wooden Desks

1. Prep desk. Remove drawers, hardware, and clean surfaces.
2. Initial sanding. Start with 80 grit (25-pack) to strip away finishes and scratches.
3. Smooth surfaces. Use 150 grit (50-pack) for refined smoothing.
4. Final prep. Finish with 220 grit (100-pack) to create a finish-ready surface.
5. Clean dust. Vacuum and tack cloth to remove sanding dust before finishing.

Special Cases

For veneer desks, sand lightly to avoid sanding through thin layers. Antique desks should be sanded by hand with finer grits to preserve details. Painted desks may require chemical stripping before sanding to prevent clogging paper.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to prevent scratches showing under finish.
• Pay extra attention to the desktop surface—it must be perfectly smooth for comfort.
• Test stain or paint on an underside area before applying across the desk.

Aftercare

• Protect finish: Use desk mats or coasters to prevent scratches.
• Re-finish as needed: Light sanding with 220 grit before re-coating extends desk life.
• Clean gently: Avoid harsh chemicals that damage finishes.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? Yes, if old finish is peeling. For touch-ups, scuff sanding may suffice.
• What grit works best before painting? 220 grit gives the ideal balance of smoothness and adhesion.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes—for edges and detailed areas, hand sanding is best.

Watch & Learn

Sanding desks is the foundation of a flawless refinish. With the right grit sequence and technique, you’ll restore beauty and function, giving your desk a refreshed life for years of use.