Sanding Between Coats of Paint: Get a Professional Finish Every Time

When painting wood, metal, or drywall, applying multiple coats of paint is the norm. But to achieve that smooth, flawless finish that looks professionally done, the secret lies in sanding between coats. Skipping this step can leave behind brush strokes, bubbles, or uneven sheen. Here’s your complete guide to sanding between coats of paint for a durable, polished finish.

Why Sanding Between Coats Matters

Every coat of paint leaves behind tiny imperfections—whether it’s dust nibs, roller texture, or raised grain. Sanding knocks down these inconsistencies and provides a light tooth for the next coat to grip, ensuring better adhesion and a glass-like final appearance.

Recommended Tools

• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (silicon carbide for versatility)
• Sanding block or sponge for even pressure
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag to remove dust
• Respirator or dust mask for safety

Choosing the Right Grit Sequence

• 220 grit: Best for leveling after the first coat and removing raised fibers on wood.
• 320 grit: Ideal for smoothing between second and third coats.
• 400 grit: Use before the final coat for a silky surface.

Step-by-Step: How to Sand Between Coats

1. Allow full drying time. Never sand wet paint. Check manufacturer’s recommendations—typically 6–24 hours.
2. Start with 220 grit. Lightly sand after the first coat to knock down fibers and uneven spots. For example, 220 grit (25-pack) is perfect for this step.
3. Move to 320 grit. After applying the second coat and letting it dry, sand again with 320 grit (50-pack) for an ultra-smooth surface.
4. Finish with 400 grit. Before your final coat, lightly sand with 400 grit (100-pack) to achieve a flawless, professional-grade finish.
5. Clean thoroughly. Use a tack cloth to remove sanding dust before re-coating.

Special Cases

Glossy paints: Require extra sanding between coats to ensure adhesion.
Latex paints: Softer than oil-based, so use a lighter touch with finer grits.
Wood grain: Always sand along the grain to avoid scratches that show through.

Pro Tips

• Always use light pressure—let the sandpaper do the work.
• Wet sanding with fine grits (320–400) reduces dust and yields a smoother result.
• Sand edges and corners by hand to avoid burn-through.

Aftercare & Next Steps

• Let the final coat cure fully before heavy use—typically 7 days.
• For extra durability, consider adding a protective topcoat.
• Store leftover sandpaper in a dry, flat place to prevent curling.

FAQs

• Do I have to sand between every coat? Yes, except for the final coat.
• Can I use steel wool instead of sandpaper? Not recommended—it can leave behind fibers that rust.
• What if I see scratches after painting? You likely used too coarse a grit—always finish with 320–400 before the last coat.

Watch & Learn

By following the right grit sequence and sanding between coats, you’ll transform an average paint job into a professional-looking finish. With just a little patience, your surfaces will look flawless and last longer.