Refinishing a Wooden Dining Table for a Smooth, Durable Finish (120–400 Grit Sequence)

A wooden dining table is often the centerpiece of a home, but over time, daily use can leave it scratched, stained, and dull. Refinishing it is a rewarding project that restores its beauty and extends its life. In this guide, we’ll walk through a complete sanding and finishing process, from surface preparation with Grit 120 to ultra-smooth final sanding with Grit 400, ensuring a flawless, durable finish.

Why Sanding is Critical for Table Refinishing

Sanding removes the old finish, smooths imperfections, and opens the grain for optimal stain or sealant absorption. Skipping steps or using the wrong grits can leave visible scratches, cause uneven color absorption, or shorten the lifespan of the new finish.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander for large flat areas
• Sanding block for edges and corners
• Vacuum and tack cloths
• Wood stain or paint
• Clear protective finish (polyurethane, lacquer, or oil)
• Multiple grits of sandpaper
• Drop cloth and protective gear

Best Grit Sequence for Dining Table Refinishing

• Grit 120 — Removing the old finish and leveling minor imperfections
• Grit 180 — Refining surface after initial sanding
• Grit 220 — Pre-stain smoothing
• Grit 400 — Final sanding for silky finish

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prep your workspace. Place the table on a drop cloth in a well-ventilated area. Remove any table leaves and sand them separately for a uniform finish.
2. Initial sanding. Start with Grit 120 (100-pack) to remove the old finish and even out the surface. Always sand with the grain to avoid cross-grain scratches.
3. Refining pass. Switch to Grit 180 (10-pack) to remove scratches from the coarser grit and further smooth the surface.
4. Pre-stain smoothing. Move to Grit 220 (25-pack) to create an even texture that absorbs stain consistently.
5. Staining. Apply your chosen stain evenly with a clean cloth or brush. Wipe away excess to prevent blotching and allow to dry fully before applying any topcoat.
6. Final sanding before topcoat. For an ultra-smooth finish, lightly sand the dried stained surface with Grit 400 (50-pack). This step removes any raised grain and leaves a silky feel.
7. Apply protective finish. Use a high-quality clear finish to protect against spills, scratches, and heat. Apply thin, even coats, sanding lightly with Grit 400 between coats if needed.
8. Detail sanding. Use a sanding block or folded sheets for edges, corners, and carved details to maintain the table’s original contours.

Special Cases

For softwoods like pine, avoid applying too much pressure with coarse grits to prevent gouging. Hardwoods like oak or maple can tolerate more aggressive sanding.

Pro Tips for Success

• Replace sandpaper frequently for consistent cutting performance.
• Test stain color on an inconspicuous area before applying to the entire table.
• Allow the final coat of finish to cure fully before placing items on the table—this can take several days depending on the product.

Aftercare

• Clean with a soft, damp cloth—avoid harsh cleaners.
• Use coasters and placemats to prevent damage from heat and moisture.
• Reapply a protective topcoat every few years to maintain durability.

FAQs

• Can I paint instead of staining? Yes—just follow the same sanding process to ensure proper paint adhesion.
• Do I have to sand between finish coats? Light sanding between coats produces a smoother, more professional-looking finish.

Watch & Learn

Following this grit progression—from Grit 120 (100-pack) to Grit 400 (50-pack)—will leave your dining table with a flawless finish that’s ready for years of meals, celebrations, and everyday use.