How to Sand a Wooden Table Before Painting or Staining: Complete Guide for DIY Success

Prepping a wooden table for painting or staining starts with proper sanding. Whether you’re refinishing a thrift store find or updating a dining table, sanding smooths imperfections, removes old finish, and helps paint or stain adhere evenly. This SEO-optimized guide explains how to sand a wood table step by step using the right grits and tools for flawless results.

Why Sand a Table Before Finishing?

Sanding removes surface damage, old coatings, and helps absorb stain or paint uniformly. It also eliminates dents, scratches, and water marks for a professional-grade finish.

Best Sandpaper Grits for Table Refinishing

• 100–120 grit sandpaper: For stripping old finish and smoothing rough wood.
• 150–180 grit sandpaper: For general sanding before primer or stain.
• 220–320 grit sandpaper: For final smoothing and sanding between coats.

Step-by-Step: How to Sand a Wood Table

1. Clean the table surface and legs thoroughly.
2. Begin sanding with 100–120 grit to remove old paint, stain, or clear coat.
3. Progress to 150–180 grit to smooth the surface and prep for finishing.
4. Finish with 220–320 grit for ultra-smoothness or sanding between coats.
5. Wipe clean with a tack cloth before staining or priming.

Pro Tips for Table Sanding

• Use a detail sander or sanding sponge for edges and corners.
• Sand with the grain to prevent swirl marks.
• Remove dust between every grit change for best results.

FAQs

• Can I paint a table without sanding? Not recommended—paint may chip or peel without sanding.
• Do I need to sand between paint or stain coats? Yes—light sanding improves finish adhesion and feel.

Watch & Learn

Get premium table sanding sheets at eQualle and explore more refinishing guides on our DIY blog.