Professional Results with 100, 280, and 800 Grit Sandpaper

Choosing the right grit sequence can save time and improve finish quality. A progression of 100, 280, and 800 grit sandpaper offers a balanced approach to sanding, covering rough smoothing, mid-level refinement, and fine finishing for a wide range of projects.

Why This Sequence Works

100 grit tackles rough surfaces and removes scratches or finish quickly. 280 grit refines the surface, smoothing out imperfections left by coarser grits. Finally, 800 grit provides a polished feel, ideal for prepping clear coats, resin, or fine woodworking.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for 100 grit removal
• Sanding block or pad for 280 grit control
• Foam pad and water spray bottle for 800 grit wet sanding
• Vacuum and tack cloth

Step-by-Step Process

1. Initial sanding. Start with 100 grit (25-pack) to remove tool marks, rough spots, or old finishes.
2. Refinement stage. Switch to 280 grit (50-pack) for smoothing edges, panels, or filler repairs.
3. Final finishing. Use 800 grit (100-pack) with light pressure or wet sanding for a refined, satin-like surface.
4. Clean between grits. Always vacuum and wipe with tack cloth before moving to the next grit.

Special Cases

For woodworking, this sequence is excellent for preparing pieces before staining. For resin or epoxy projects, 800 grit adds clarity after leveling with 280. In auto refinishing, 100 grit may be used on fillers, while 800 prepares clear coats for polishing.

Pro Tips

• Do not skip from 100 straight to 800—280 grit is critical for removing coarse scratches.
• Use light, even strokes at 800 grit to prevent uneven sanding marks.
• Consider wet sanding at 800 grit for the best clarity on resin or auto surfaces.

Aftercare

• Apply protective finishes after sanding to lock in smoothness.
• Re-sand lightly with 280 or 800 grit before recoating finishes.
• Keep sandpaper dry and stored flat to avoid curling.

FAQs

• Is 100 grit too rough for furniture? Use it for stripping or heavy leveling—always follow with finer grits.
• What’s 280 grit best for? Refining surfaces between coarse and fine stages—ideal before priming or staining.
• Why stop at 800 grit? It provides a refined finish, perfect for most woodworking and resin projects before polishing.

Watch & Learn

By using 100, 280, and 800 grit sandpaper in sequence, you’ll achieve a balance of power and precision that leaves surfaces smooth, polished, and ready for finishing.