Finishing Strong with 320, 600, and 2000 Grit Sandpaper

For projects where smoothness and polish are the ultimate goal, using 320, 600, and 2000 grit sandpaper in sequence creates a flawless surface. This combination is especially useful for fine woodworking, resin finishing, and automotive clear coat polishing.

Why This Sequence Works

320 grit refines surfaces, removing marks from coarser grits. 600 grit prepares the surface for coatings or additional polishing. Finally, 2000 grit achieves a silky finish that can be buffed to a mirror-like shine.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sanding block or orbital sander for 320 grit
• Flexible sanding sponge or pad for 600 grit
• Foam pad and water spray bottle for 2000 grit wet sanding
• Vacuum and tack cloth

Step-by-Step Process

1. Surface refinement. Begin with 320 grit (25-pack) to remove light scratches and prep surfaces.
2. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 600 grit (50-pack) to erase 320 grit marks and create an ultra-smooth surface.
3. Final polishing. Wet sand with 2000 grit (100-pack) to achieve clarity and gloss.
4. Clean carefully. Vacuum and tack cloth between each grit stage to avoid embedded dust.

Special Cases

In woodworking, 320 grit is often the final prep before applying finish, but continuing to 600 and 2000 enhances smoothness dramatically. For automotive clear coats, this sequence is essential for swirl-free polishing before buffing. Resin projects also benefit from this progression for glass-like clarity.

Pro Tips

• Always wet sand with 2000 grit for the best results.
• Apply light pressure—fine grits are about refinement, not removal.
• Use even strokes to avoid streaking on glossy surfaces.

Aftercare

• Buff with compounds after 2000 grit for mirror-like finishes.
• Seal surfaces quickly to preserve smoothness and protect from dust.
• Store high-grit papers flat and dry for maximum shelf life.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand all the way to 2000 grit? Only if a high-gloss finish is required.
• Is 320 grit enough for wood before stain? Yes, but continuing to 600 provides an even smoother base.
• What’s 2000 grit best for? Final polishing of auto clear coats, resin, or high-end wood finishes.

Watch & Learn

By sanding with 320, 600, and 2000 grit, you’ll achieve surfaces that are not only smooth but also polished to professional-grade clarity.