Refinish Wooden Desk with 180, 320, and 1500 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden desks can show signs of wear from daily use, including scratches, stains, and faded finishes. Using 180, 320, and 1500 grit sandpaper, you can restore a smooth surface and prepare the desk for a beautiful, protective finish.

Why This Method Works

180 grit removes worn finish and smooths out damage. 320 grit refines the wood for an even stain or paint application. 1500 grit burnishes the surface for a silky, professional touch before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 180 grit (25-pack), 320 grit (50-pack), 1500 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or clear polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 180 grit: Remove old coatings and imperfections. (25-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth for finish application. (50-pack)
• 1500 grit: Burnish for a refined, smooth feel. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Clear the desk of all items and clean the surface thoroughly to remove dirt and dust.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 180 grit sandpaper to strip away old finish and level uneven areas.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the surface before the final sanding stage.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 1500 grit sandpaper for a silky-smooth, professional-grade finish.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the desk, letting each coat dry fully before applying the next.

Special Considerations

For desks with drawers, sand each piece separately to ensure even coverage and detail work.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid swirl marks.
• Vacuum and wipe between grit changes to keep the surface clean.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for better durability and a smoother appearance.

Aftercare

• Use coasters and desk mats to protect the finish.
• Dust regularly to maintain its fresh look.

FAQs

• Can I skip 320 grit? No—jumping from 180 to 1500 grit will leave visible scratches.
• Will 1500 grit make the desk glossy? Gloss depends on the final topcoat, not the sanding grit alone.
• Does this method work for painted desks? Yes—start with 180 grit to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and bring your wooden desk back to life.