Refinish Wooden Chair with 60, 320, and 2000 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden chairs can become scratched, faded, and rough after years of use. Using 60, 320, and 2000 grit sandpaper, you can strip away old finishes, smooth the surface, and prepare it for a fresh, durable coating.

Why This Method Works

60 grit removes old coatings and heavy surface damage. 320 grit smooths the wood for even stain or paint absorption. 2000 grit burnishes the surface for a silky feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 60 grit (25-pack), 320 grit (100-pack), 2000 grit (50-pack)
• Sanding block or orbital sander
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 60 grit: Strip old coatings and remove deep imperfections. (25-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth for finish application. (100-pack)
• 2000 grit: Burnish for a silky finish. (50-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove any cushions or upholstery and clean the chair thoroughly.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 60 grit sandpaper to strip away old finish and heavy wear.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the surface.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 2000 grit sandpaper for a smooth, touch-friendly finish.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the chair, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Special Considerations

Use hand sanding for spindles and curved details to avoid damaging their shape.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to achieve the smoothest results.
• Vacuum and wipe between grit changes to prevent scratches.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for maximum durability.

Aftercare

• Dust regularly to keep the finish looking fresh.
• Use felt pads on chair legs to protect floors and prevent wear.

FAQs

• Can I skip 320 grit? No—jumping from 60 to 2000 grit will leave visible scratches.
• Will 2000 grit make the chair slippery? No—it creates a smooth finish without reducing grip.
• Does this work on painted chairs? Yes—start with 60 grit to remove paint before smoothing with finer grits.

Watch & Learn

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