How to Sand Resin Jewelry: Smooth and Glossy Finishes

Resin jewelry is popular for its clarity and creative possibilities, but raw resin often cures with rough edges, bubbles, or a cloudy surface. Sanding is essential to achieve a professional, glass-like finish. This guide covers the grit sequence, tools, and techniques to perfect resin jewelry pieces.

Why Sand Resin Jewelry?

Unfinished resin can feel rough or look hazy. Sanding removes surface imperfections, levels edges, and preps the resin for polishing. Without it, your jewelry may appear dull or uneven.

Tools You’ll Need

• 9x11 in wet/dry sandpaper sheets
• Small sanding block or nail buffer
• Spray bottle with water
• Microfiber cloths
• Polishing compound

Best Grit Sequence for Resin Jewelry

• 400 grit: Levels rough edges and bubbles.
• 800 grit: Refines scratches and smooths the surface.
• 1500 grit: Pre-polish sanding for semi-gloss finish.
• 2000 grit: Creates a smooth, clear surface.
• 3000 grit: Ultra-fine sanding before final polish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Resin Jewelry

1. Clean the piece. Wash resin jewelry to remove dust and debris.
2. Start with 400 grit. Use 400 grit (25-pack) to smooth sharp edges and bubbles.
3. Move to 800 grit. Apply 800 grit (50-pack) for a refined surface.
4. Polish with 1500 grit. Use 1500 grit (100-pack) to prepare for gloss.
5. Refine with 2000 grit. Wet sand for clarity and smoothness.
6. Finish with 3000 grit. Ultra-fine sanding gives a perfect base for polishing compounds.
7. Buff and polish. Use polishing compound and a microfiber cloth for a glass-like finish.

Special Cases

For colored or embedded resin jewelry, avoid aggressive sanding that may expose layers or decorations. Always wet sand to prevent scratches and clouding.

Pro Tips

• Sand under running water or keep the surface wet to avoid heat buildup.
• Work in small, circular motions for even sanding.
• Don’t skip grits—each stage removes scratches from the last.

Aftercare

• Store resin jewelry away from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing.
• Clean with mild soap and water only—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Re-polish occasionally to maintain shine.

FAQs

• Can I sand resin by hand? Yes—hand sanding is ideal for small jewelry pieces.
• Will sanding make resin clear? Yes—progressive sanding up to 2000–3000 grit restores clarity.
• Do I need polishing compound after sanding? Yes—it gives resin the final glossy finish.

Watch & Learn

For jewelry makers, eQualle’s wet/dry sandpaper sheets in grits 400–3000 deliver professional results. Available in 25, 50, and 100 packs. Shop super fine sandpaper here.