One of the things people love most about Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint is that it's made to work with your furniture, not against it. In most cases, you don't need to sand at all. A good, thorough clean is all it takes before your first brushstroke.
But there are times when a little sanding makes a real difference. Whether you're trying to bring out the natural beauty of the wood grain, smooth over a rough or uneven surface, or even out old imperfections before you paint.
If that sounds like your project, this guide is for you.
Do You Always Need to Sand?
The short answer is no, and that's one of the reasons so many people fall in love with Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint.
Unlike conventional paint, you don't need to strip, prime, or sand most surfaces before you start. The Granny B's method is simple: Clean, Paint, Protect. That's it.
Most thrifted pieces, and anything that's been previously painted, only need a thorough clean before you get going. For everyday prep, Lacquer Thinner works brilliantly for cutting through grease, wax, and old residue, while Sugar Soap is great for a general surface clean. Once the piece is dry, you're ready to paint.
No sanding. No drama.
So When Should You Sand?
There are specific situations where sanding before painting is worth the extra effort:
The surface has a high gloss finish. Very shiny or lacquered surfaces can be slippery for paint to grip. A light scuff with fine-grit sandpaper gives the paint something to hold onto.
The paint is chipping or flaking. Loose or peeling paint needs to be addressed before you start. Sand it back until the surface is stable, otherwise your new coat will lift along with the old.
The wood is rough or weathered. Outdoor furniture, reclaimed wood, or pieces that have seen better days often benefit from a good sand to smooth the surface before painting.
If none of these apply to your piece, if it has a clean, dull surface, no peeling paint, and no deep scratches, you can skip the sanding entirely and go straight to cleaning.
The Golden Rule of Sanding
Before anything else, remember this:
Always sand with the grain.
Sanding against the grain creates visible scratches that can show through your paint, even after multiple coats. Follow the direction of the wood's natural lines, work in long, smooth strokes, and let the sandpaper do the work.
What Grit Sandpaper Should You Use?
Choosing the right grit makes the process much easier:
80 to 120 grit is for heavier sanding work, removing old finishes, or smoothing out rough or weathered surfaces. Use this for problem areas first.
150 to 180 grit is a good all-rounder for general prep work and the most commonly used grit for furniture painting projects.
220 grit is for fine finishing, scuffing a glossy surface, or a light sand between coats. It leaves a smooth, even base for your paint.
When in doubt, start with a medium grit and move to a finer grit if needed.
Step-by-Step: How to Sand Before Using Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint
Step 1: Clean first. Always remove dust, grease, and grime before you sand. Use Lacquer Thinner for waxy or greasy surfaces, and Sugar Soap for a general clean. Sanding a dirty surface just pushes the dirt in deeper.
Step 2: Choose your grit. Assess your surface and select the appropriate sandpaper based on the guide above.
Step 3: Sand with the grain. Work in the direction of the wood's natural lines using smooth, even strokes. Avoid circular motions.
Step 4: Work progressively. If your surface needs heavier sanding, start with a coarser grit and finish with a finer one.
Step 5: Remove all dust. Wipe the piece down thoroughly with a damp cloth or tack cloth and allow it to dry completely before painting.
Step 6: Paint with confidence. Once your surface is clean, dry, and smooth, you're ready to apply your Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint.
Don't Forget to Protect
Once your paint is dry and you're happy with the finish, the final step is protection. A good sealer or topcoat locks in your hard work and gives your piece the durability it needs for everyday use, especially important for tables, chairs, and other high-traffic surfaces.
Granny B's range includes finishing products designed to work hand in hand with the paint, so your piece stays beautiful for the long haul. It's the last step in the Granny B's method: Clean, Paint, Protect, and it's not one to skip.
Final Thoughts
Sanding isn't always necessary, but when it is, it's worth doing properly. A well-prepped surface means better adhesion, a smoother finish, and a result you'll be proud of for years to come.
Whether you're a first-time painter or a seasoned furniture flipper, Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint is designed to make the whole process as simple and enjoyable as possible. Clean it, paint it, protect it and enjoy the transformation.
Happy painting!