How to Sandpaper a Varnished Table

Disassemble the table by removing the legs or removing the table top from its base.

Lay the pieces out on a clean, sturdy work surface. Apply steady pressure when sanding by hand, and be sure the work surface is strong.

Sand the surface areas of the pieces with a 24-grit sandpaper. It is easiest to sand with the orbital sander. Rent one if needed. Avoid gouges and lines by always keeping the sander running when moving it around the surface and when removing it from the wood. Change the sandpaper often to prevent gouging.

Brush the surface free of any dust.

Continue sanding the surface by slowly increasing the grit of the sandpaper after each sanding, working towards the 180-grit fine sandpaper. Clean the surface each time you change the sandpaper. A heavy coat of varnish will require you to change sandpaper at least 5 times to get a smooth varnish-free surface.