Refinishing a Wooden Dining Table for a Showroom-Quality Finish (100–320 Grit Sequence)

A wooden dining table is the centerpiece of many homes, serving as both a functional surface and a design statement. Over time, daily use, spills, and heat can wear down the finish, leaving it dull or damaged. Sanding and refinishing can restore the table’s beauty, improve durability, and extend its lifespan. This guide takes you through the complete process using a Grit 100 to Grit 320 sequence.

Why Sanding is Important for Dining Table Restoration

Dining tables face constant use, so refinishing isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating a surface that can handle everyday wear while remaining smooth and easy to clean.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander for large flat surfaces
• Sanding block for edges and corners
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Multiple grits of sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint
• Clear protective finish
• Protective gear: mask, goggles, gloves

Best Grit Sequence for Dining Tables

• Grit 100 — Removing old finish and surface damage
• Grit 180 — Refining the surface after coarse sanding
• Grit 220 — Pre-finish smoothing
• Grit 320 — Final pass for a smooth, refined feel

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove the table’s legs (if possible) and clean the entire surface to remove dirt and grease.
2. Initial sanding. Start with Grit 100 (50-pack) to strip away the old finish and remove scratches, dents, and stains.
3. Surface refinement. Switch to Grit 180 (100-pack) to smooth out marks left by the coarse grit and create a more even surface.
4. Pre-finish sanding. Move to Grit 220 (10-pack) to prepare the surface for stain or paint, ensuring even absorption.
5. Final sanding. Use Grit 320 (25-pack) for a silky, professional-grade finish before applying the protective coat.
6. Dust removal. Vacuum and wipe the surface with a tack cloth to remove all fine dust particles.
7. Apply stain or paint. Brush or wipe on thin, even coats, following the grain. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
8. Apply protective finish. Use multiple thin coats of polyurethane or lacquer, sanding lightly with Grit 320 between coats for optimal smoothness.

Special Cases

If your table has veneer, avoid starting with very coarse grits like Grit 100, which may remove too much material. Instead, begin with Grit 180 and proceed carefully.

Pro Tips for Success

• Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
• Test stain colors on a hidden section before applying to the whole surface.
• Work in a dust-free area to avoid particles settling in the finish.

Aftercare

• Use placemats and coasters to protect the surface from spills and heat.
• Dust regularly with a soft cloth.
• Reapply protective finish every few years to maintain durability and appearance.

FAQs

• Can I use an oil finish instead of polyurethane? Yes, but oil finishes typically require more frequent reapplication.
• How long does refinishing take? Expect the process to take 2–4 days, depending on drying times between coats.

Watch & Learn

By following this grit progression—from Grit 100 (50-pack) to Grit 320 (25-pack)—you can transform your dining table into a smooth, beautiful, and durable centerpiece that will last for years.