How to Make a Wood Surface Smoother

Smooth the top of a wood table to give it a fresh look.

Humans have been using wood to build since the dawn of our existence. The natural strength and flexibility of this material has given it wide applications. When wood is subject to regular use it can become pitted and rough. You can refinish the wood to its original smooth surface by filling the low spots and sanding the high areas. With a little manual labor your wood surface will be as smooth as new.

Things You'll Need

• Wood filler
• Hand sander
• 60 grit sandpaper
• 120 grit sandpaper
• 240 grit sandpaper

Instructions

1. Fill the low spots and dents in the table with wood filler. If the dents are deeper than 1/16 of an inch you need to fill the hole at 1/16-inch depth with wood filler. Let the wood filler dry, then apply another layer at 1/16 inch. Repeat this process until the dents, scratches and low spots are above the top of the table. Allow the wood filler to dry overnight.

2. Install the sandpaper into the holder. Begin by loosening its compression mechanism on either side, then insert the paper under the clamps and tighten the mechanisms down so the paper is flat on the bottom.

3. Sand the top of the wood surface with the 60 grit sandpaper, making a circular motion with the paper. This removes the large imperfections in the surface.

4. Sand the top of the wood surface with the 120 grit sand paper, using a circular motion. This further smooths the surface.

5. Sand the top of the wood surface with the 240 grit sandpaper, using a circular motion. This produces the final smooth surface of the wood. Pay particular attention to making even motions when sanding the final time.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a dust mask when sanding to keep the saw dust out of your lungs.