Best Sandpaper Grit for Stripping Old Paint from Furniture

Stripping old paint from furniture can be a challenging but rewarding DIY project. Choosing the right sandpaper grit ensures you remove paint efficiently without damaging the wood underneath. With eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9x11 inches), you’ll have the control and performance needed to prepare furniture for a fresh finish.

Why Sand Instead of Chemical Strippers?

Chemical paint removers can be messy, toxic, and unpredictable on delicate furniture. Sanding with the correct grit sequence is safer, cleaner, and gives you more control over the surface. It also allows you to smooth out imperfections while stripping paint.

Best Sandpaper Grits for Paint Removal

• 80 grit: Aggressive removal of thick paint layers.
• 100 grit: Smoothing after heavy stripping.
• 150 grit: Refining the surface before stain or primer.
• 220 grit: Final smoothing before applying new finishes.

Step-by-Step: Stripping Paint with Sandpaper

1. Prep the furniture. Remove hardware, clean surfaces, and secure the piece for sanding.
2. Start coarse. Use 80 grit (25-pack) eQualle Sandpaper Sheets to strip away old paint layers.
3. Refine the surface. Follow up with 100 grit (50-pack) to remove scratches and level the wood.
4. Smooth further. Switch to 150 grit (25-pack) for a refined finish before primer.
5. Final prep. End with 220 grit (100-pack) to achieve a smooth surface ready for stain or paint.

Special Considerations

For antique or veneer furniture, avoid overly coarse grits like 60, as they may damage thin wood surfaces. Always sand with the grain to protect the integrity of the piece.

Pro Tips

• Work slowly and evenly—rushing can gouge the wood.
• Use a sanding block for flat panels and folded sheets for corners and carvings.
• Wear a dust mask—old paint can release harmful particles.
• Wipe dust away between grit changes for best results.

Aftercare

• Seal leftover sandpaper sheets in a dry place to prevent moisture damage.
• Apply stain or primer soon after sanding to protect exposed wood.
• Use felt pads on refinished furniture to protect flooring and surfaces.

FAQs

• Is sanding the only way to remove paint? No, but it’s often the cleanest and safest for small projects.
• Can I use power sanders? Yes, but finish by hand to avoid swirl marks.
• Do I need to sand all the way to bare wood? For painting, just enough to remove gloss. For staining, yes, sand to bare wood.

Watch & Learn

Strip away old finishes the right way with eQualle Sandpaper Sheets. Shop our coarse grit collection to get started on your next furniture restoration.