What power tool is best to sand furniture?
Posted by JCB Tools on 31st Mar 2025
Restoring wooden furniture requires precision, patience, and the right tools. Sanding is a crucial step in achieving a smooth, professional-quality finish. Using the wrong sander can lead to uneven surfaces, visible swirl marks, or even damage to the wood. This JCB Tools guide will help you choose the best sander for furniture restoration and explain why JCB Random Orbital Sanders are an excellent choice for your refinishing needs.
Why a Random Orbital Sander is the Best Choice for Sanding Furniture
A random orbital sander is a hand-held power tool that moves in both circular and elliptical motions simultaneously. This unique action prevents sanding marks, ensuring a smooth and flawless finish. Random orbital sanders are versatile, making them suitable for wood, metal, and plastic—ideal for furniture restoration projects.
Benefits of a Random Orbital Sander:
Swirl-Free Finish: The random orbit motion minimizes visible sanding marks.
Versatility: Works on various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.
Dust Management: Built-in dust collection systems maintain a cleaner workspace.
Ergonomic Design: Comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue during extended use.
JCB Random Orbital Sanders: The Perfect Tools for Furniture Sanding
JCB Tools offers a range of high-quality random orbital sanders, designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Here are two top models:
£
56.99
JCB 320W Electric (Corded) Random Orbital Sander 125mm (5'')
Powerful 320W motor delivers consistent performance for extended sanding sessions.
Includes three sanding sheets and a 3-meter cable for flexibility.
Ideal for removing old finishes and smoothing surfaces efficiently.
£
30.40
£
37.99
JCB Cordless ( Battery) Random Orbital Sander 125mm (5'')
Cordless design offers freedom of movement without being tethered to an outlet.
Compatible with 2.0–5.0Ah Li-ion batteries for extended runtime.
Comes with a dust bag and accessories, making it a versatile sanding solution.
Benefits of Using JCB Random Orbital Sanders for Furniture Sanding
Swirl-Free Finish: The random orbit action minimises the risk of swirl marks, ensuring a smooth and even surface on your furniture pieces.
Versatility: Suitable for sanding a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic, allowing you to work on different types of furniture with ease.
Dust Management: Our sanders come equipped with dust collection systems to help maintain a cleaner work environment and reduce airborne particles.
Ergonomic Design: Designed for comfort, our sanders feature ergonomic grips to reduce fatigue during prolonged use.
5 Expert Tips for Sanding Furniture with a Random Orbital Sander
To get the best results from your JCB Random Orbital Sander, follow these expert tips:
1. Choose the Right Sandpaper Grit
Selecting the appropriate sandpaper is essential:
40–80 grit: Removes old finishes or smooths rough surfaces.
120–180 grit: Ideal for fine sanding.
220–320 grit: Provides a smooth, ready-to-finish surface.
2. Let the Sander Do the Work
Applying too much pressure can cause uneven sanding and swirl marks. Hold the sander lightly and allow it to glide over the surface.
3. Keep the Sander Moving
Avoid keeping the sander in one spot for too long. Move it in slow, steady, overlapping passes to achieve an even finish.
4. Utilise the Dust Collection System
Most JCB Random Orbital Sanders come with built-in dust collection bags. Using this feature minimizes airborne particles and keeps your workspace clean. For enhanced dust control, consider connecting to a shop vacuum.
5. Inspect and Change Sandpaper Regularly
Worn-out sandpaper reduces efficiency and can scratch the surface. Check frequently and replace as needed for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes! Random orbital sanders work well on painted surfaces, but start with a coarse grit to remove the paint before switching to a finer grit for smoothing.
Keep the sander moving at all times, use the right grit progression, and avoid applying excessive pressure.
An orbital sander moves in a fixed pattern, which can leave swirl marks. A random orbital sander moves in a random pattern, reducing the risk of visible sanding marks.
Investing in a quality random orbital sander from JCB Tools will enhance your furniture sanding projects, providing professional results with ease. Explore our full range of orbit sanders on our website to find the perfect tool for your needs.
