eQualle Sandpaper Sheets for Plastic Model Car Finishing (320–2000 Grit Guide)

Building scale model cars requires precision, and sanding is a critical step for smooth paint jobs and realistic finishes. eQualle 9x11 inch Wet/Dry Sandpaper Sheets provide the grit range needed to refine plastic parts, prep surfaces, and polish painted finishes.

Why Sanding Model Cars Matters

Plastic parts often have mold lines, seams, or imperfections that distract from realism. Sanding removes these flaws, smooths primer coats, and prepares surfaces for paint and clear coat. Fine sanding and polishing bring out the shine of miniature vehicles.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sanding sticks or blocks
• Magnifying lamp
• Primer and model paint
• Microfiber cloths
• eQualle Wet/Dry Sandpaper Sheets

Best Sandpaper Grits for Model Cars

• 320 Grit (100-pack) — Removes mold lines and shapes plastic parts.
• 600 Grit (25-pack) — Smooths surfaces before primer application.
• 1000 Grit (50-pack) — Refines primer and prepares for paint coats.
• 2000 Grit (25-pack) — Final polishing of painted surfaces for glossy finishes.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Model Cars

1. Prep the parts. Wash sprues and parts to remove mold release agents.
2. Sand with 320 grit. Remove seams, flash, and imperfections on plastic parts.
3. Switch to 600 grit. Smooth parts before applying primer.
4. Move to 1000 grit. Wet sand primer for a refined surface ready for paint.
5. Finish with 2000 grit. Polish painted surfaces for realistic, high-gloss finishes.

Special Cases

For metallic paints, sanding up to 2000 grit ensures the clearest, smoothest finish. For matte paints, stop at 1000 grit to maintain proper paint texture.

Pro Tips

• Cut sandpaper into strips for detailed sanding in tight areas.
• Always wet sand finer grits to avoid scratches and clogging.
• Use microfiber cloths to gently polish final coats.

Aftercare

• Handle models with gloves during finishing to prevent fingerprints.
• Store models away from dust to preserve polished finishes.
• Re-polish gently with 2000 grit if surfaces become dull.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand every plastic part? Only visible parts or those with imperfections need sanding.
• Can I polish without 2000 grit? Yes, but the gloss will be less reflective.
• Is wet sanding necessary? Yes, especially with finer grits for smooth, scratch-free finishes.

Watch & Learn

Bring realism to your scale models with eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9x11 in, Wet or Dry). Explore the fine sanding collection for your next model car project.