Refinish Wooden Coffee Table with 150, 320, and 2000 Grit Sandpaper

A well-loved coffee table can accumulate scratches, water rings, and worn spots over the years. Using 150, 320, and 2000 grit sandpaper, you can remove damage, smooth the surface, and prepare it for a flawless new finish.

Why This Method Works

150 grit removes old coatings and evens out imperfections. 320 grit smooths the wood for even finish application. 2000 grit burnishes the surface for a silky, high-quality feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 150 grit (50-pack), 320 grit (100-pack), 2000 grit (25-pack)
• Orbital sander or hand sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain or polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 150 grit: Strip and level the surface. (50-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth for finishing. (100-pack)
• 2000 grit: Burnish for a refined touch. (25-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove all items from the table and clean the surface thoroughly.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 150 grit sandpaper to remove the old finish and smooth uneven spots.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the surface before final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 2000 grit sandpaper for a silky, professional feel.
5. Apply finish. Stain or seal the coffee table, letting each coat dry completely before applying the next.

Special Considerations

For tables with decorative edges, hand sanding may be necessary to avoid losing detail.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to prevent swirl marks.
• Vacuum between grit changes to avoid contaminating finer sandpaper.
• Apply thin, even coats of finish for best results.

Aftercare

• Use coasters to prevent water rings.
• Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth.

FAQs

• Can I start with 320 grit? Only if the table is in very good condition with minimal wear.
• Will 2000 grit make it slippery? No—it will create a refined, smooth feel without excessive gloss unless paired with high-gloss finishes.
• Does this work on veneer? Yes—just use light pressure with coarse grits to avoid sanding through the top layer.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and bring your coffee table back to its original beauty.