Sanding Wooden Tables Before Refinishing: Smooth Surfaces That Last

Whether restoring an antique or updating a dining table, sanding is the most important step before refinishing. Proper sanding removes scratches, old finishes, and imperfections while creating a smooth, even surface that absorbs stain or finish beautifully. Here’s how to sand a table for lasting results.

Why Sanding Matters

Tables endure daily wear—spills, scratches, dents, and fading. Sanding not only refreshes the surface but also ensures the new finish bonds evenly and looks flawless. Without proper sanding, refinishing can highlight flaws instead of hiding them.

Essential Tools

• Orbital or palm sander for large surfaces
• Hand sanding block for edges
• Wet/dry silicon carbide sandpaper
• Tack cloths and microfiber rags
• Protective mask and gloves

Best Sandpaper Grits for Tables

• 100 grit: Strip old finishes and level surface (100 Grit (100-pack)).
• 150 grit: Smooth scratches and refine surface (150 Grit (25-pack)).
• 220 grit: Final sanding for a finish-ready surface (220 Grit (50-pack)).

Step-by-Step: Sanding a Table

1. Prep the surface. Remove hardware and clean off dirt or grease.
2. Start with 100 grit. Strip off old finish and level rough spots.
3. Move to 150 grit. Refine the surface, smoothing scratches left by coarse grit.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Lightly sand to achieve a smooth, even texture for staining or sealing.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with tack cloths to remove dust.
6. Apply finish. Use stain, oil, or polyurethane to seal and protect.

Special Cases

For veneer tables, avoid coarse grits below 100 to prevent sanding through thin layers. Antique tables may benefit from gentler sanding with 150–220 grit only.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
• Use sanding sponges for rounded edges and corners.
• Dampen wood before final sanding to raise grain, then sand again with 220 grit.

Aftercare

• Allow finishes to cure fully before placing objects on the table.
• Use coasters and mats to protect the surface.
• Dust with microfiber cloths to maintain appearance.

FAQs

• Do I need to remove all old finish? Yes, for consistent absorption of stain or sealer.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes, but orbital sanders speed up the process on large tabletops.
• What happens if I skip sanding? The new finish may not adhere well and could peel or look uneven.

Watch & Learn

With the right grit sequence, your table will be smooth, durable, and beautiful. Browse our wood sanding sheets to get started on your next refinishing project.