How to Sand Wooden Tabletops for a Smooth Finish (100, 180, 220, 320 Grit Step-by-Step Guide)

A wooden tabletop is often the centerpiece of a dining room or workspace. Whether you’re restoring an old table or finishing a new one, sanding is the most important step for achieving a flawless surface. Without proper sanding, stains will look blotchy, paint may peel, and finishes won’t appear professional. This guide explains how to sand tabletops correctly using 100, 180, 220, and 320 grit sandpaper.

Why Sanding Tabletops Matters

Wood tabletops endure constant use—scratches, spills, and dents are common. Sanding removes these imperfections and prepares the surface for staining or sealing. A properly sanded tabletop will not only look beautiful but also last longer with the right finish applied.

Benefits of sanding include:

• Smooth surface: Eliminates scratches, dents, and rough spots.
• Better finish adhesion: Ensures stains and sealers absorb evenly.
• Improved durability: A clean, smooth base helps finishes resist wear and moisture.
• Professional look: Enhances natural grain patterns and creates a polished final product.

Choosing the Right Grits

• 100 grit: Removes old finishes, varnish, and deep scratches.
• 180 grit: Smooths rough sanding marks and prepares for fine sanding.
• 220 grit: Refines the surface for stain or clear finish.
• 320 grit: Final sanding pass for a silky, touchable surface.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets: Durable sheets in 100, 180, 220, and 320 grits.
• Orbital sander: For large, flat tabletop surfaces.
• Sanding block: Maintains even sanding on edges.
• Tack cloth: Removes fine dust between sanding steps.
• Work light: Helps spot imperfections before finishing.

Step-by-Step Sanding Guide

1. Begin with 100 grit. Use 100 grit (25-pack) to strip old finish and smooth out deep scratches. Sand with the grain for the best results.
2. Switch to 180 grit. Apply 180 grit (25-pack) to refine scratches left from 100 grit. The surface should begin to feel smoother and more consistent.
3. Refine with 220 grit. Use 220 grit (100-pack) to prepare the tabletop for stain or clear coat. At this stage, the surface should look uniform and touchably smooth.
4. Finish with 320 grit. Apply 320 grit (25-pack) for a silky surface that will make finishes look flawless.

Special Considerations

Softwoods: Avoid oversanding—too fine a finish can prevent stain absorption.

Hardwoods: Take extra time at finer grits for a glassy finish.

Edge sanding: Use a sanding block for edges to keep them crisp, not rounded.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Clean thoroughly between grits to prevent cross-contamination.
• Use a vacuum or tack cloth to remove dust before finishing.
• Don’t rush—sanding takes time, but it determines the final quality.

Aftercare Before Finishing

• Apply wood conditioner after 220 grit if staining softwoods.
• Prime and seal tabletops immediately after sanding to prevent dust buildup.
• For painted finishes, scuff lightly with 320 grit between coats for a smoother result.

FAQs

• Do I always need 100 grit? Only if removing old finish or repairing heavy damage.
• Is 320 grit necessary? For paint jobs, 220 grit may be enough. For stains or clear coats, 320 grit is recommended.
• Can I use a belt sander? For heavy stripping, yes—but finish with orbital sanding to avoid gouges.
• How long does sanding take? Expect 1–3 hours depending on table size and condition.

Watch & Learn

Shop tabletop sanding sheets: Get 100, 180, 220, and 320 grit sandpaper in convenient packs. Shop wood sanding sandpaper.

Closing Thoughts

Sanding a wooden tabletop requires patience and the right grit sequence. By moving through 100 → 180 → 220 → 320 grits, you’ll create a flawless surface that showcases the beauty of the wood while ensuring paints, stains, or sealers apply evenly. A properly sanded tabletop not only looks stunning but also stands up to everyday use for years to come.