Sanding Wooden Dining Tables Before Painting: Grit Guide for Lasting Beauty

Dining tables see heavy use every day, from meals to homework to gatherings. Over time, scratches, stains, and dull finishes can make them look worn. Painting is a cost-effective way to refresh them, but sanding is the key step to achieving a durable, professional finish. This guide explains the grit sequence and process for sanding dining tables before painting.

Why Sand Dining Tables Before Painting?

Sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and gives primer and paint the right surface to bond with. Without sanding, paint may peel, chip, or highlight scratches instead of hiding them.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets in multiple grits
• Orbital sander for large surfaces
• Sanding block or sponge for legs and edges
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Protective gear (mask, gloves, safety glasses)

Best Grit Sequence for Dining Tables

• 80 grit: Removes old finishes and heavy scratches.
• 120 grit: Smooths the surface and evens texture.
• 180 grit: Refines scratches and prepares for primer.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for a silky, paint-ready finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Dining Tables Before Painting

1. Prep the table. Remove leaves, hardware, and clean the surface thoroughly.
2. First sanding pass. Use 80 grit (50-pack) to strip old finishes and level dents.
3. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit (25-pack) for even texture.
4. Refine with 180 grit. Apply 180 grit (100-pack) to prep for primer.
5. Final sanding. Use 220 grit (25-pack) before applying primer and paint.
6. Edge sanding. Use folded sheets or sponges for legs, corners, and decorative edges.
7. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with a tack cloth.
8. Prime & paint. Apply primer first, then finish with thin coats of paint.

Special Cases

For hardwood dining tables, consider sanding up to 320 grit before glossy paint finishes. For softwood tables like pine, stop at 220 grit to maintain good paint adhesion.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain for a smooth, professional result.
• Sand lightly between coats of paint with 320 grit for flawless finishes.
• Don’t oversand—primer and paint need slight texture to grip properly.

Aftercare

• Allow paint to cure fully before heavy use.
• Use placemats or tablecloths to protect the surface.
• Clean with mild soap and water—avoid abrasives.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand if using chalk paint? Yes—light sanding ensures smoother adhesion and a longer-lasting finish.
• Can I skip 180 grit? Not recommended—it helps bridge the transition between medium and fine sanding.
• What if the table has deep scratches? Fill with wood filler before the final sanding pass.

Watch & Learn

Sanding dining tables before painting ensures a smooth, professional-looking finish that lasts. Stock up on 80 to 220 grit sandpaper sheets for your next dining table makeover.