Refinishing Wooden Desks with eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (60, 120, 220, 320 Grits)

Wooden desks endure years of daily use, often showing scratches, dents, ink stains, and faded finishes. Instead of replacing your desk, you can restore its beauty and durability with the right sanding approach. With eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9 x 11 inches), refinishing becomes a straightforward project for any DIY enthusiast.

Why Sanding Desks Matters

A smooth desk surface not only looks professional but also provides comfort for writing, working, and placing devices. Sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and prepares wood for stain, varnish, or paint.

Essential Tools

• eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9x11 in)
• Orbital sander and sanding block
• Tack cloth or vacuum
• Wood stain or paint
• Clear varnish or polyurethane
• Protective gloves and dust mask

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 60 Grit (25-pack) — For removing thick varnish, dents, or heavy stains.
• 120 Grit (50-pack) — For smoothing after coarse sanding and refining shapes.
• 220 Grit (25-pack) — For fine sanding before primer, stain, or varnish.
• 320 Grit (50-pack) — For polishing between coats and ensuring a silky surface.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare the desk. Remove drawers, hardware, and clean the surface thoroughly.
2. Sand with 60 grit. Strip away old finish, deep scratches, or dents.
3. Refine with 120 grit. Smooth the wood, eliminating marks from coarse sanding.
4. Fine sand with 220 grit. Prepare for even stain or paint absorption.
5. Polish with 320 grit. Lightly sand between coats of varnish or polyurethane.
6. Clean thoroughly. Remove all sanding dust with a tack cloth or vacuum.
7. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal with clear varnish for durability.

Special Cases

For veneer desks, avoid coarse 60 grit sanding, as it may damage the thin wood layer. Start with 120 grit instead.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain of the wood to avoid visible scratches.
• Use a sanding block for flat areas and hand sanding for edges and corners.
• Apply multiple coats of varnish, sanding lightly between each for durability.
• Test stain on a hidden area before applying across the entire surface.

Aftercare

• Clean with a damp cloth—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Use coasters and desk pads to protect from scratches.
• Reapply protective finish every few years to maintain appearance.

FAQs

• Can I sand by hand? Yes, though an orbital sander speeds up larger surfaces.
• What grit should I stop at before staining? 220 grit is ideal for smooth, even stain absorption.
• Do I need to sand between coats of varnish? Yes, lightly sanding with 320 grit ensures better adhesion and smoothness.

Video Guide

Give your desk a new life with eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9x11 inches). Explore more grit options in our Wood Sanding Collection for your next project.