How to Sand Wood Furniture Before Painting (80, 150, 220 Grit Step-by-Step Guide)

Painting old wood furniture is a cost-effective way to refresh your home décor, but the quality of the finished piece depends on one critical step: sanding. Proper sanding smooths out scratches, removes old finishes, and gives paint something to grip. Without it, paint may peel, chip, or look uneven. This guide explains how to sand wood furniture using 80, 150, and 220 grit sandpaper for flawless results.

Why Sanding Furniture Is Important

Over time, furniture surfaces develop scratches, dents, or uneven finishes. Sanding restores the surface and ensures paint or primer bonds effectively. It also removes glossy layers that would otherwise repel new coatings.

Benefits include:

• Better adhesion: Roughens the surface so paint or primer sticks firmly.
• Scratch removal: Erases years of wear and tear from tabletops, chairs, and cabinets.
• Smooth texture: Ensures paint lays evenly without brush marks.
• Professional results: Extends the life of your paint finish.

Choosing the Right Grits

• 80 grit: Heavy-duty removal of old finishes, varnish, or thick paint.
• 150 grit: Refines rough sanding marks and levels the surface.
• 220 grit: Creates a smooth, paint-ready surface.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets: Durable wet/dry sheets for versatility.
• Sanding block or sponge: Keeps sanding even on flat surfaces and contours.
• Orbital sander: Speeds up sanding on large surfaces like tabletops.
• Vacuum and tack cloth: Removes fine dust before painting.
• Drop cloth: Protects floors from dust and debris.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to remove old finishes, varnish, or thick layers of paint. Work with the wood grain and apply steady pressure.
2. Smooth with 150 grit. Switch to 150 grit (25-pack) to refine the scratches left by 80 grit. This step evens out the surface.
3. Finish with 220 grit. Apply 220 grit (100-pack) for the final sanding. The surface should now feel smooth and be ready for primer or paint.

Special Considerations

Antique furniture: Sand gently to preserve details and avoid over-smoothing carved sections.

Painted furniture: If paint is lead-based, take safety precautions and use proper protective gear.

Softwoods vs. hardwoods: Apply lighter pressure on softwoods like pine to avoid gouges.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to prevent visible scratches.
• Always clean between grit changes to avoid cross-contamination.
• Use a sanding sponge for curved legs and detailed profiles.
• Don’t rush—gradual grit progression ensures the smoothest results.
• Vacuum thoroughly before priming or painting.

Aftercare Before Painting

• Prime furniture immediately after sanding to prevent dust or moisture issues.
• Use bonding primer for glossy woods.
• Lightly sand with 220 grit between paint coats for a smooth finish.

FAQs

• Can I skip 80 grit? Only if the furniture is already free of heavy finishes. Otherwise, start with 80 grit.
• Do I need 220 grit before priming? Yes—this final grit ensures a smooth, professional look.
• Is wet sanding useful for wood furniture? Typically, dry sanding is better for wood. Wet sanding may raise the grain.
• How long does sanding take? Small chairs may take an hour, while large dressers may require several hours.

Watch & Learn

Shop furniture sanding sheets: Get 80, 150, and 220 grit sandpaper in convenient packs. Shop wood sanding sandpaper.

Closing Thoughts

Sanding wood furniture is the key to achieving a flawless paint finish. By working through 80 → 150 → 220 grits, you’ll remove old finishes, smooth imperfections, and create a surface that’s perfectly ready for primer and paint. With patience and the right sanding sequence, your refurbished furniture will look polished and professional.