Choosing the Right Sandpaper for Wood Furniture Refinishing (120–320 Grit Guide)

Refinishing wood furniture is a rewarding project, but the results depend heavily on proper sanding. Using the right grit sequence ensures a smooth finish, strong adhesion for stains or paints, and a professional look. In this guide, we’ll explore how to sand wood furniture effectively with eQualle 9x11 inch sandpaper sheets, focusing on 120, 180, 220, and 320 grits.

Why Sanding Matters in Furniture Refinishing

Sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and opens wood pores to accept stain or paint evenly. Skipping or rushing this step can leave blotches, scratches, or uneven color absorption.

Essential Tools

• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Dust mask and safety glasses
• Tack cloth or microfiber cloth
• eQualle 9x11 in Wet/Dry Sandpaper Sheets

Best Sandpaper Grits for Furniture Refinishing

• 120 Grit (25-pack) — Removes old finish and rough imperfections.
• 180 Grit (50-pack) — Smooths surfaces after initial sanding.
• 220 Grit (100-pack) — Prepares wood for staining or sealing.
• 320 Grit (25-pack) — Final finishing for ultra-smooth surfaces.

Step-by-Step: Refinishing Wood Furniture

1. Prep the piece. Clean the furniture with mild soap and water. Remove hardware and wipe it dry.
2. Start with 120 grit. Sand along the grain to strip old varnish or rough patches.
3. Smooth with 180 grit. Refine the surface, evening out tool marks and scratches.
4. Switch to 220 grit. Create a finish-ready surface ideal for stain absorption.
5. Finish with 320 grit. Lightly sand to achieve a silky feel before applying final coats.
6. Clean thoroughly. Wipe with a tack cloth to remove all sanding dust.
7. Apply stain or paint. Follow manufacturer directions, then seal with polyurethane for durability.

Special Cases

For antique or delicate furniture, avoid coarse grits below 120 to prevent gouging. For painted pieces, consider a chemical stripper before sanding to save time.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
• Use wet sanding with finer grits for an ultra-smooth finish.
• Replace sandpaper sheets when they clog or lose effectiveness.

Aftercare

• Keep finished furniture out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Clean with a damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals.
• Apply furniture polish periodically to maintain shine.

FAQs

• Do I need to strip old paint before sanding? Not always, but sanding over thick paint layers can clog paper quickly. Stripping first saves time.
• Can I use the same grit sequence for hardwood and softwood? Yes, but softwoods may need lighter pressure to avoid denting.
• Should I use a power sander or hand sanding? Use a sander for large flat areas and hand sand details and corners.

Watch & Learn

Using the correct grit sequence with eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9x11 in, Wet or Dry) guarantees professional results when refinishing wood furniture. Explore the full wood sanding collection today.