Sanding Plywood Before Painting: Smooth Prep for Even Coats

Plywood is widely used for cabinets, furniture, and DIY projects, but its layered surface requires careful sanding before painting. Proper sanding smooths rough fibers, evens out patches, and ensures paint adheres evenly without soaking in or peeling.

Why Sanding Plywood Matters

Plywood often has splinters, mill marks, or surface irregularities that paint will highlight. Sanding removes these flaws and opens the wood surface for primer and paint, giving a professional finish.

Essential Tools

• Orbital or palm sander for large flat areas
• Sanding block for edges
• Wet/dry silicon carbide sandpaper
• Tack cloth and microfiber rags
• Primer and paint

Best Sandpaper Grits for Plywood

• 100 grit: Initial smoothing and leveling rough spots (100 Grit (100-pack)).
• 150 grit: Refine surface and remove scratches (150 Grit (25-pack)).
• 220 grit: Final sanding before primer (220 Grit (50-pack)).

Step-by-Step: Sanding Plywood for Painting

1. Inspect surface. Fill gaps or voids with wood filler and let dry.
2. Start with 100 grit. Sand flat panels and edges to remove rough fibers.
3. Switch to 150 grit. Smooth scratches and refine the wood surface.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Lightly sand for a paint-ready finish.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with tack cloth to remove dust.
6. Prime and paint. Apply primer, then sand lightly with 220 grit between coats for best results.

Special Cases

Exterior-grade plywood may have a rougher surface, requiring more time with coarse grit. Veneered plywood should be sanded gently—avoid over-sanding to prevent cutting through thin veneer layers.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Seal plywood edges with primer or wood sealer to prevent excessive paint absorption.
• Use light pressure—plywood layers can be thin and delicate.

Aftercare

• Allow paint to cure fully before use.
• Clean painted plywood with mild cleaners to preserve finish.
• Touch up chips promptly to prevent peeling.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand new plywood? Yes—factory surfaces still contain rough fibers and mill marks.
• What primer is best for plywood? A stain-blocking primer prevents tannin bleed-through.
• Can I use plywood without sanding? Not recommended—paint won’t adhere well and finish will look rough.

Watch & Learn

Sanding plywood ensures smooth, durable paint results. Stock up on wood sanding sheets for your next plywood project.