How to Sand and Restore a Wooden Coffee Table for a Fresh Look (60–320 Grit Sequence)

A wooden coffee table often serves as the centerpiece of a living room, but daily use can leave it scratched, stained, and worn. Sanding and refinishing can bring back its beauty, making it look like new. In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process, from aggressive leveling with Grit 60 to a silky-smooth finish with Grit 320.

Why Sanding Matters for Coffee Table Restoration

Over time, spills, hot cups, and general wear can damage a table’s finish. Sanding removes imperfections, levels the surface, and prepares the wood for a new protective coating that will last for years.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander for large surfaces
• Sanding block for edges and legs
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Multiple grits of sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint
• Clear protective finish
• Protective gear: mask, goggles, gloves

Best Grit Sequence for Coffee Table Refinishing

• Grit 60 — Removing old finish and leveling rough areas
• Grit 150 — Smoothing after coarse sanding
• Grit 220 — Pre-finish smoothing
• Grit 320 — Final sanding for a silky feel

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove any hardware or detachable parts. Place the table on a drop cloth in a ventilated area.
2. Initial sanding. Use Grit 60 (10-pack) to remove the old finish and smooth out dents or uneven spots.
3. Surface refinement. Switch to Grit 150 (25-pack) to remove scratches from the coarse grit and further smooth the surface.
4. Pre-finish sanding. Move to Grit 220 (50-pack) to prepare the surface for stain or clear coat.
5. Final sanding. Finish with Grit 320 (100-pack) for a smooth, professional feel.
6. Dust removal. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth to remove all dust before finishing.
7. Apply stain or paint. Apply evenly and allow to dry completely.
8. Apply protective finish. Use a high-quality clear coat for durability, sanding lightly with Grit 320 between coats if desired.

Special Cases

For veneered coffee tables, avoid heavy sanding with coarse grits to prevent going through the veneer layer. Start at Grit 150 if necessary.

Pro Tips for Success

• Always sand in the direction of the grain.
• Replace sandpaper when it becomes dull for consistent results.
• Test stain color on the underside before applying to the top surface.

Aftercare

• Use coasters and placemats to protect the surface.
• Dust regularly with a soft cloth.
• Reapply protective finish every few years.

FAQs

• Can I skip the 320 grit stage? You can, but for the smoothest feel and professional look, it’s recommended.
• Do I need to sand between coats of finish? Yes—light sanding improves adhesion and smoothness.

Watch & Learn

By following this grit progression—from Grit 60 (10-pack) to Grit 320 (100-pack)—you’ll restore your coffee table to a smooth, stylish, and durable surface ready for daily use.