Refinish Wooden Side Table with 120, 400, and 800 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden side tables often suffer from scratches, water rings, and faded finishes due to daily use. Using 120, 400, and 800 grit sandpaper, you can restore the surface to a smooth, fresh look ready for staining or painting.

Why This Method Works

120 grit removes old finish and surface imperfections. 400 grit smooths the wood for a consistent finish application. 800 grit burnishes the surface for a refined, professional-grade feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 120 grit (25-pack), 400 grit (50-pack), 800 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or clear polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Remove old coatings and minor dents. (25-pack)
• 400 grit: Smooth for finish application. (50-pack)
• 800 grit: Burnish for a silky touch. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove any items from the table and clean the surface to remove dust and grime.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 120 grit sandpaper to strip old finish and smooth out imperfections.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 400 grit sandpaper to refine the surface for final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 800 grit sandpaper for a smooth, professional finish.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the table, letting each coat dry fully before applying the next.

Special Considerations

For curved legs or carved edges, hand sand to maintain detail.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Vacuum between grit changes to prevent cross-contamination of sanding particles.
• Apply thin coats of finish for better adhesion and smoothness.

Aftercare

• Use coasters to prevent water damage.
• Dust regularly to maintain the finish.

FAQs

• Can I skip 400 grit? No—jumping from 120 to 800 grit will leave sanding marks.
• Will 800 grit make the table shiny? Shine comes from the topcoat, not sanding grit alone.
• Does this work on painted tables? Yes—start with 120 grit to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and give your side table a refreshed, elegant look.