Sanding Drywall Joints for a Smooth Paint Finish (150–400 Grit Guide)

When finishing drywall, the difference between a professional result and a patchy wall often comes down to sanding. Using the right sandpaper grits in the correct order ensures invisible seams, smooth texture, and flawless paint adhesion. This guide explains how to sand drywall joints with eQualle 9x11 inch wet/dry sandpaper sheets, focusing on 150, 220, 320, and 400 grits.

Why Sanding Drywall is Essential

Joint compound tends to leave ridges, bumps, or uneven transitions. Sanding levels these imperfections, blending the seams into the rest of the wall. Without sanding, painted drywall may reveal tape lines or rough textures under the finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Dust mask or respirator
• Sanding block or pole sander
• Work light (to highlight imperfections)
• Tack cloth or vacuum
• eQualle 9x11 in Wet/Dry Sandpaper Sheets

Best Sandpaper Grits for Drywall

• 150 Grit (25-pack) — For rough sanding of joint compound build-up.
• 220 Grit (50-pack) — Smooths seams after the initial sanding.
• 320 Grit (100-pack) — Refines surfaces before primer.
• 400 Grit (25-pack) — Final finishing for seamless paint application.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Drywall Joints

1. Inspect the wall. Use a work light at an angle to highlight bumps and ridges.
2. Start with 150 grit. Remove heavy edges of joint compound and level seams.
3. Move to 220 grit. Blend patched areas into the surrounding drywall.
4. Switch to 320 grit. Refine the surface, making it paint-ready.
5. Finish with 400 grit. Feather out transitions and prepare for a flawless topcoat.
6. Clean the wall. Vacuum or wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust.
7. Prime & paint. Apply primer to seal the surface, then finish with your chosen paint.

Special Cases

For ceilings, use a pole sander with light pressure to avoid gouging. In humid environments, wet sanding with fine grits helps control dust.

Pro Tips

• Always sand in a circular motion for feathered edges.
• Shine a light across seams to spot imperfections before painting.
• Replace sheets often—dull paper can tear drywall paper.

Aftercare

• Store leftover sandpaper sheets flat in a dry place.
• Check painted walls after drying—touch up with 400 grit if needed.
• Use a high-quality primer to lock in the finish.

FAQs

• Can I skip sanding if I use self-leveling joint compound? No. Even self-leveling compounds need light sanding to remove film and imperfections.
• Is wet sanding better for drywall? Wet sanding reduces dust but takes longer and is less precise. Use for small patches or sensitive areas.
• What grit is best for final sanding? 400 grit ensures the smoothest paint-ready surface.

Watch & Learn

With the right grit sequence, eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9x11 in, Wet or Dry) make drywall sanding faster and cleaner. See the full medium to fine sanding collection for your next project.