Step-by-Step Sanding with 120, 360, and 2000 Grit Sandpaper

When your project needs balanced sanding that starts with surface prep and ends with high-gloss finishing, the sequence of 120, 360, and 2000 grit sandpaper is a great choice. This progression ensures every stage of sanding is covered with precision.

Why This Sequence Works

120 grit is ideal for initial smoothing and light material removal. 360 grit bridges the gap, refining the surface and preparing it for coatings. Finally, 2000 grit delivers a polished, mirror-like finish suitable for automotive, resin, and fine woodworking projects.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander or block for 120 grit sanding
• Sanding sponge or flexible pad for 360 grit refinement
• Foam pad with water spray bottle for 2000 grit wet sanding
• Vacuum and tack cloth

Step-by-Step Process

1. Initial sanding. Begin with 120 grit (25-pack) to smooth rough areas and prepare for finer grits.
2. Surface refinement. Switch to 360 grit (50-pack) to erase marks and leave the surface finish-ready.
3. Final polish. Wet sand with 2000 grit (100-pack) for silky smooth, polished results.
4. Clean carefully. Always vacuum and tack cloth after each grit to prevent dust contamination.

Special Cases

In woodworking, 120 grit preps surfaces, 360 grit smooths for stain, and 2000 grit adds luxury refinement. In auto refinishing, 120 grit can shape fillers, 360 grit preps primer, and 2000 grit polishes clear coats. Resin projects also benefit from 2000 grit for glass-like clarity.

Pro Tips

• Never skip from 120 directly to 2000—360 grit is critical for removing scratches first.
• Always wet sand at 2000 grit for the best clarity and reduced clogging.
• Use consistent, light strokes with finer grits to avoid uneven sanding.

Aftercare

• Apply finishes promptly after sanding to protect the smooth surface.
• Buff 2000 grit results with compounds for mirror-like gloss.
• Keep sandpapers flat and dry to extend their lifespan.

FAQs

• Is 120 grit good for finishing? It’s for prep only—always follow with finer grits.
• What’s 360 grit used for? It bridges coarse and fine sanding stages, leaving a finish-ready surface.
• Why use 2000 grit? It delivers ultra-smooth polishing for high-end surfaces like auto clear coats and resin.

Watch & Learn

By working with 120, 360, and 2000 grit sandpaper, you’ll achieve professional results that take surfaces from rough prep to polished perfection.