Sanding Wood Trim and Molding: 120–240 Grit Sandpaper Sheets

Wood trim and molding add elegance to interiors, but they require careful sanding before painting or staining. Using 9x11 inch sandpaper sheets ensures crisp edges and a smooth finish. eQualle’s wet dry silicon carbide sandpaper sheets make it easy to prepare trim for flawless results.

Why Sand Trim and Molding?

Trim often has mill marks, rough edges, or old finish. Sanding removes imperfections and creates a surface ready for paint or stain. Without sanding, coatings may appear uneven or fail to adhere properly.

Tools You’ll Need

• eQualle wood sanding sandpaper sheets
• Sanding block or foam pad for contours
• Detail sander for intricate profiles
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Protective mask and goggles

Best Grit Sequence for Trim

• 120 grit — Smooths rough lumber or old finish. 120 Grit (25-pack).
• 180 grit — Refines the surface and prepares for paint. 180 Grit (25-pack).
• 240 grit — Final smoothing before primer or stain. 240 Grit (100-pack).

Step-by-Step Trim Sanding

1. Start with 120 grit sandpaper sheets. Sand the entire trim surface, removing mill marks or leftover paint.
2. Switch to 180 grit. Feather edges and refine the surface for a smoother feel.
3. Finish with 240 grit sandpaper sheets. Lightly sand to create a uniform surface ready for primer or stain.

Special Cases

For intricate molding, fold sandpaper sheets or wrap them around a foam pad to reach grooves. For stained trim that’s being repainted, always sand down to at least 180 grit before priming.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid cross scratches.
• Vacuum dust from corners and grooves before painting.
• Use sandpaper sheets that don’t clog with dust for consistent cutting power.

Aftercare

• Apply primer immediately after sanding bare wood.
• Keep leftover sheets flat and organized by grit.
• Touch up with 240 grit sheets before repainting trim in the future.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand new trim? Yes—even new trim has mill marks and raised fibers.
• What grit is best before primer? 220–240 grit ensures proper adhesion.
• Which pack is most practical? A 240 Grit (100-pack) is the best for finishing work.

Watch & Learn

Get crisp, smooth trim and molding with eQualle 9x11 in sandpaper sheets. Shop the full range in the Wood Sanding Collection.