Preparing the Wood
Depending on how good a job you were able to do with the stripper, you may not have a lot of sanding to do. Just start with 120 grit paper to remove finish which may still be there and to smooth out the wood. Then smooth the whole piece down with 220 grit paper. Be sure to sand with the grain. Sand by hand so as to not leave any “orbital” marks or any other marks that electric sanders make. Belt sanders are the only ones that don’t leave anything but you have to be skilled with them.The final finish depends on the care you take when sanding. No amount of stain or varnish will make up for a bad sanding job. In fact, it may make rough spots more visible.