How to Sand Flat Wood

If you're thinking of refinishing a piece of wood furniture, don't skip the sanding of the wood. This is the most important part of your project. The finish won't go on well if you skip this part. Sanding the flat areas of your furniture pieces to prepare it for refinishing is easy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sand paper
• Wood filler

1. Choose the right grade sand paper for your project. For heavier wood, choose a stronger grade of sand paper. Have plenty of it on hand.

2. Fill any holes or scratches in the wood with the wood filler. Place the sand paper, grain side down onto a flat surface of your project.

3. Sand one side of the wood, being sure to sand with the grain of the wood. Use vigorous consistent pressure as you sand.

4. Sand all areas of the wood. Don't forget to sand the sides, as well. When the sand grain on the sandpaper wears down, use another part of the sandpaper or use a fresh piece. Sand any areas where the wood filler was used.

5. When the sanding is finished, clean off the dust and do a quick sand once over to make sure all areas were covered. Clean the dust off with a cheese cloth to remove all sand dust when you are finished. A damp rag will also work to remove the dust from the wood.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use a sand block to hold your sandpaper in, so you don't hurt your hands. An electric sander can also be used.
• No matter which way you choose to sand your flat piece of wood, you will still need to sand with the grain and not against.