How to Sand a Wooden Guitar Body for a Flawless Finish (80, 120, 180, 220, 240, 280, 320, 400 Grit Full Guide)

A wooden guitar body is more than just an instrument—it’s a work of art. Whether you’re building from scratch, refinishing an old favorite, or customizing a new look, sanding is the most important stage for achieving a flawless finish. This guide shows you how to sand a guitar body step by step using grits 80, 120, 180, 220, 240, 280, 320, and 400. Follow this process to ensure your guitar has a perfectly smooth surface ready for paint, stain, or lacquer.

Why Sanding Matters for Guitars

Because guitars are both functional and aesthetic, sanding serves several key purposes:

• Smoothness: Ensures the body feels comfortable against the player’s hands and arms.
• Finish adhesion: Creates the right texture for paint, stain, or clear lacquer to bond strongly.
• Grain highlight: Prepares the wood so stains and dyes bring out natural beauty.
• Professional results: Prevents imperfections from showing under glossy finishes.

Choosing the Right Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: For rough shaping, leveling, and removing thick sealer or old finish.
• 120 grit: For refining shaping marks and scratches left by 80 grit.
• 180 grit: Prepares the raw wood for stain or primer.
• 220 grit: Standard grit before finishing.
• 240 grit: Adds a touch of refinement for stain-ready surfaces.
• 280 grit: Smooths delicate contours and round edges.
• 320 grit: Silky finish before clear coats.
• 400 grit: Optional fine sanding for high-end guitars before lacquer.

Essential Tools

• Orbital sander: For flat back and top surfaces.
• Sanding blocks: Provide control around the guitar’s curves.
• Detail sander: For horns, cutaways, and rounded contours.
• Sanding sponges: Flexible for edges and body curves.
• Vacuum + tack cloth: Keep dust under control.

Step-by-Step: Sanding a Guitar Body

1. Initial shaping (80 grit). Level uneven areas with 80 grit (25-pack) to remove sealer or rough spots.
2. Smoothing (120 grit). Switch to 120 grit (50-pack) to refine wood texture.
3. Preparing surface (180 grit). Use 180 grit (100-pack) before staining or sealing.
4. Finish-ready sanding (220 grit). Apply 220 grit (25-pack) for the classic finish prep.
5. Extra refinement (240 grit). For stain absorption control, use 240 grit (50-pack).
6. Contour smoothing (280 grit). Apply 280 grit (25-pack) to eliminate micro scratches.
7. Silky sanding (320 grit). Smooth with 320 grit (100-pack) before applying clear coats.
8. Final hand-sanding (400 grit). Complete prep with 400 grit (25-pack) for ultimate smoothness.

Special Cases

Softwoods (like pine): Stop at 220 grit—too fine may prevent stain penetration.

Hardwoods (like maple, mahogany): Sand through 320–400 grit for glassy finishes.

Repairs and refinishes: If stripping old paint, start with 80 grit and work carefully to avoid altering contours.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches showing through finish.
• Use light hand sanding between stages for curves where machines can’t reach.
• Check progress under angled light to see hidden scratches.
• Wipe down dust between grits to prevent contamination.

Aftercare

• Once finished, always seal the body to prevent moisture absorption.
• Store guitars in low-humidity environments after refinishing.
• Clean with microfiber cloths—avoid harsh cleaners that strip finishes.

FAQs

• What grit before staining? 180–220 grit works best for guitar wood.
• Can I skip grits? No, skipping may leave visible scratches under clear coats.
• How long does sanding take? Expect several hours depending on body condition.
• Do I need wet sanding? Only at finer stages (320–400 grit) if you want a glass-like surface before lacquer.

Watch & Learn

Shop sanding sheets for guitars: From 80 grit shaping to 400 grit finishing, available in 25, 50, and 100 packs. Shop guitar sanding sandpaper.

Closing Thoughts

Sanding a guitar body is as much an art as a craft. By working methodically through 80 to 400 grit, you’ll prepare wood for a finish that highlights its natural beauty and provides lasting durability. Whether staining for vintage warmth or spraying a high-gloss lacquer, the sanding steps outlined here ensure your guitar looks and feels professional. With the right sandpaper sequence, your instrument will not only sound great but shine on stage.