Sanding a plastic table, particularly as a preparation step for painting or refinishing, involves cleaning the surface and creating a profile for better adhesion using appropriate sandpaper grit.
Why Sand Plastic Before Painting?
Unlike wood, plastic is non-porous and often has a smooth, sometimes glossy, surface. Sanding helps to scuff up this smooth surface, creating tiny grooves that the paint or finish can grip onto. This dramatically improves the adhesion of the new coating, preventing peeling or chipping down the line.
Essential Tools & Materials
Before you begin sanding your plastic table, gather the necessary supplies. Based on common practices and the provided reference, you will need:
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Supplies | Removing dirt, grime, and oils | Soap, water, degreaser |
| Medium Grit Sanding Sponge | Creating a scuffed surface for adhesion | Specific type recommended |
| Lint-free Cloth | Wiping away sanding residue | Avoid leaving fibers |
| Painter's Tape | Protecting areas not being sanded/painted | Clean removal tape |
| Drop Cloth | Protecting the floor or surrounding area | Reusable or disposable |
Step-by-Step Sanding Guide
Follow these steps to properly sand your plastic table as preparation for a new finish:
Prepare the Table
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the entire surface of your plastic table. Use soap and water or a suitable plastic cleaner/degreaser to remove all dirt, grime, grease, or any other contaminants. A clean surface is crucial for both effective sanding and paint adhesion. Allow the table to dry completely.
The Sanding Process
Once clean and dry, you can start the sanding process. The reference provides a clear instruction:
Start off by cleaning the table and then sanding the top, sides, and legs of your table with your medium grit sanding sponge
Using a medium grit sanding sponge allows you to effectively scuff the surface without creating deep scratches that would be difficult to cover with paint. Work methodically across the entire surface of the table – the top, all sides, and the legs – ensuring you cover every area that will be painted or refinished. Apply even pressure.
Clean Off Residue
Sanding plastic will create dust and residue. It's important to remove this before proceeding to the next steps.
(be sure to wipe any sanding residue off before the next step.)
Use a clean, lint-free cloth, or potentially a tack cloth, to wipe down the entire table and remove all the sanding dust. This ensures a clean surface for taping and eventual painting.
Protect Unintended Areas
If you are only painting certain parts of the table, or if your table has mixed materials (like metal legs you don't want to paint), you need to protect those areas.
Using your tape and drop cloth, cover up the legs of your table.
Apply painter's tape carefully along any edges or areas you want to mask off. Use a drop cloth to cover larger areas, like the floor or other furniture, to protect them from dust or paint spray if you plan to paint afterward.
By following these steps, your plastic table will be properly prepared with a scuffed surface ready to accept paint or other finishes for a durable and professional result.
