How To Sand Wood Furniture

Sanding wood furniture is a great way to refresh its appearance, remove old finishes, or prepare it for a new finish. It can be a time-consuming process, but it's definitely worth it if you want to achieve a professional-looking finish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to sand wood furniture:

1. Gather your materials.

Sandpaper in various grits (80-grit, 120-grit, 220-grit)
Sanding block or sanding sponge
Tack cloth
Vacuum cleaner
Safety glasses
Dust mask

2. Prepare the furniture.

Remove any hardware, such as knobs or handles. If the furniture has a finish, you'll need to remove it using a chemical stripper or heat gun. Once the finish is removed, you can start sanding.

3. Start with a coarse sandpaper.

Use 80-grit sandpaper to remove any deep scratches or imperfections in the wood. Sand in the direction of the grain, and be sure to apply even pressure. Once you've sanded the entire surface, vacuum off the dust.

4. Switch to a medium-grit sandpaper.

Use 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface of the wood. Continue sanding in the direction of the grain, and be sure to overlap your strokes. Vacuum off the dust again.

5. Finish with a fine-grit sandpaper.

Use 220-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth, polished finish. Sand in the direction of the grain, and be sure to overlap your strokes. Vacuum off the dust one last time.

6. Wipe down the furniture with a tack cloth.

This will remove any remaining dust or sanding residue. Allow the furniture to dry completely before applying a new finish.

Tips:

Always wear safety glasses and a dust mask when sanding.
Use a sanding block or sanding sponge to achieve a more even finish.
Be patient and take your time. Sanding can be a time-consuming process, but it's worth it to achieve a professional-looking finish.
If you're not sure how to sand a particular piece of furniture, consult with a professional.