Refinish Wooden Dresser Top with 120, 400, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

A wooden dresser top can suffer from scratches, stains, and fading over time. Using a sanding sequence of 120, 400, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can strip away imperfections, smooth the surface, and prepare it for a flawless finish.

Why This Method Works

120 grit removes old finish and surface damage. 400 grit refines the surface for uniform finish application. 3000 grit burnishes the wood for a polished, high-quality feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 120 grit (100-pack), 400 grit (25-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack or 50-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or clear coat

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Remove old coating and level imperfections. (100-pack)
• 400 grit: Smooth for finishing. (25-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a silky finish. (25-pack) or (50-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove all items from the dresser and clean the surface thoroughly.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 120 grit sandpaper to strip away the old finish and smooth rough areas.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 400 grit sandpaper to refine the texture and prepare for the final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit (25-pack) or 3000 grit (50-pack) for a smooth, professional feel.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the dresser top, allowing each coat to dry fully before adding another.

Special Considerations

Be careful with pressure when sanding near edges to maintain clean lines and prevent rounding corners.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Vacuum dust between grit changes for a flawless finish.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for the best durability.

Aftercare

• Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth.
• Use coasters and mats to protect the surface from spills and scratches.

FAQs

• Can I start with 400 grit? Only if the surface is in excellent condition with minimal imperfections.
• Will 3000 grit make it too shiny? No—it creates smoothness without excessive gloss unless paired with a high-gloss topcoat.
• Does this work on veneered furniture? Yes—just use light pressure with coarse grits to avoid sanding through the veneer.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and make your dresser top look brand new again.