Refinish Wooden Dining Chairs with 150, 320, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

Dining chairs can become scratched and dull from daily use. With a sanding process using 150, 320, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can remove wear, smooth the surface, and prepare them for a fresh coat of finish.

Why This Method Works

150 grit removes old finish and surface blemishes. 320 grit smooths the wood for consistent stain or paint absorption. 3000 grit burnishes the surface for a refined, touch-friendly feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 150 grit (100-pack), 320 grit (25-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack or 50-pack)
• Small sanding block or foam pad
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Paint, stain, or clear varnish

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 150 grit: Strip and level surface. (100-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth for finish application. (25-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a silky touch. (25-pack) or (50-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove cushions or fabric covers. Clean surfaces thoroughly to remove dust and grease.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 150 grit sandpaper to remove old coatings and smooth out dents.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the surface before final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit (25-pack) or 3000 grit (50-pack) for a polished finish.
5. Apply finish. Paint, stain, or varnish as desired, allowing each coat to dry fully before applying the next.

Special Considerations

For curved or carved chair parts, wrap sandpaper around a sponge to maintain control without removing too much material.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for best results.
• Vacuum dust thoroughly between grit changes.
• Use thin coats of finish to avoid drips.

Aftercare

• Dust regularly to maintain the finish.
• Wipe spills immediately to prevent damage.

FAQs

• Can I skip 320 grit? No—jumping from 150 to 3000 grit can leave visible sanding marks.
• Will 3000 grit make the chairs slippery? No—it creates a smooth, refined feel without excessive gloss unless paired with high-gloss finishes.
• Does this work on painted chairs? Yes—just use 150 grit first to remove old paint layers.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and bring your dining chairs back to showroom condition.