Sanding Wooden Tables Before Painting: Grit Guide for Smooth, Lasting Finishes

Painting a wooden table can transform it into a fresh centerpiece, but sanding first is essential for a professional finish. Proper grit progression removes old coatings, smooths scratches, and ensures paint adheres evenly. This guide explains the step-by-step sanding process for tables before painting.

Why Sand a Table Before Painting?

Sanding removes imperfections, evens out surfaces, and gives primer and paint the right texture to bond. Skipping sanding can lead to peeling paint, brush marks, and uneven coverage.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets in multiple grits
• Sanding block or orbital sander
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Vacuum or shop vac
• Protective gear (mask and safety glasses)

Best Grit Sequence for Tables

• 80 grit: Removes old paint, varnish, or heavy scratches.
• 120 grit: Smooths the surface after coarse sanding.
• 180 grit: Refines scratches and preps for primer.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for a silky, paint-ready surface.

Step-by-Step: Sanding a Wooden Table

1. Prep the table. Remove drawers, hardware, and clean off dirt or grease.
2. First sanding pass. Use 80 grit (50-pack) to strip old finish and smooth dents.
3. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit (25-pack) for more even texture.
4. Refine with 180 grit. Apply 180 grit (100-pack) to prep for primer.
5. Final sanding. Finish with 220 grit (25-pack) for a silky smooth surface.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with a tack cloth.
7. Apply primer. Coat evenly to seal the wood and improve paint adhesion.
8. Paint the table. Use smooth, even strokes for a flawless finish.

Special Cases

For hardwood tables, sanding up to 320 grit may be useful before applying glossy paints. For softwoods like pine, stop at 220 grit to keep the grain open for primer absorption.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Use wet sanding with 220 grit for extra-smooth primer coats.
• For round table legs, use sanding sponges or folded sheets.

Aftercare

• Let paint cure fully before placing items on the table.
• Clean with mild soap—avoid abrasives that damage the finish.
• Touch up chips promptly to maintain appearance.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand if I’m using chalk paint? Yes—light sanding ensures smoother adhesion.
• Can I skip 180 grit? Not recommended—it bridges the step between medium and fine sanding.
• Should I sand between paint coats? Light sanding with 320 grit helps smooth brush strokes between coats.

Watch & Learn

Sanding properly sets the foundation for a durable and flawless painted finish. Stock up on 80 to 220 grit sandpaper sheets to prepare your next table project with confidence.