Vintage Sand

Sanding a guitar top, what type of sand paper should I use?

I need to re-finish my vintage acoustic. The paint is old cheap paint that chips easily. I got most of the fretboard done with a nail filer (hey! I am a girl). Which worked very well, might I add. Now I need to sand the top, which has a very THICK glossy finish. I need more than a nail filer for the job. I’m worried I might scratch it. It def needs a redoing. I have seen old guitars being refurbished (worked at an old guitar shop), so I believe I am prepared for the task, not that I am expecting it to turn out perfect. I am thinking gentle, what type of sand paper would you suggest I use? Thanks for the help!

Start with 110grit sand paper being careful not to over sand in one spot. Then go to 220grit lightly sanding to remove any deep marks from the 110. Then go onto 400 grit. This will give you a surface smooth enough to paint. If your going to varnish (clear coat) it, then you may want to sand further using a 600 grit paper. Just remember this, take to much wood off and it will definitely affect the sound. The same goes for the finish, better to use three thin coats than one thick coat.

Meinl 22” Byzance Vintage Sand Ride Cymbal (B22SAR-1031011M)