Between Coats Sanding: Using 220–320 Grit Sandpaper Sheets

For a flawless finish on wood, drywall, or painted surfaces, sanding between coats is essential. The right 9x11 inch sandpaper sheets ensure smooth layers that bond properly. eQualle’s wet dry silicon carbide sandpaper sheets make this process easy, preventing imperfections from showing through your topcoat.

Why Sand Between Coats?

Each coat of paint, polyurethane, or varnish leaves behind small bubbles, dust nibs, or brush marks. Sanding between coats with fine sandpaper sheets levels these imperfections and creates micro-scratches that help the next coat adhere.

Tools You’ll Need

• eQualle fine sandpaper sheets
• Sanding block or hand pad
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Protective gloves and mask

Best Grits for Between Coat Sanding

• 220 grit — Ideal for polyurethane or primer sanding. 220 Grit (25-pack).
• 280 grit — Smooths surfaces without over-sanding. 280 Grit (50-pack).
• 320 grit — Perfect for finishing coats before top layer. 320 Grit (100-pack).

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Let the coat cure fully. Ensure paint, primer, or polyurethane is dry to the touch before sanding.
2. Start with 220 grit sandpaper sheets. Use light pressure to knock down raised fibers, bubbles, or brush marks.
3. Move to 280 grit. This step refines scratches and prepares the surface for the next coat.
4. Finish with 320 grit sandpaper sheets. Creates a smooth, matte feel that guarantees perfect adhesion for the top layer.
5. Clean the surface. Always wipe with a tack cloth before recoating to avoid dust contamination.

Special Cases

On softwoods, avoid sanding too aggressively between coats. For high-gloss finishes, finish every intermediate sanding with 320 grit before polishing.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to prevent visible scratches.
• Use wet dry sandpaper sheets when sanding clear coats to reduce dust.
• Don’t rush—thin, well-sanded coats look better than thick, uneven ones.

Aftercare

• Store leftover sheets flat to prevent curling.
• Keep grits organized so you can move through the sequence efficiently.
• Dispose of clogged sheets to avoid scratching surfaces.

FAQs

• Can I skip sanding between coats? Not if you want a smooth, durable finish—sanding improves adhesion and appearance.
• Do I need to sand after primer? Yes—220 grit sanding removes primer imperfections and readies the surface for paint.
• Which pack is best? For furniture and cabinetry, a 320 Grit (100-pack) is the most versatile.

Watch & Learn

For silky-smooth finishes, stock up on eQualle 9x11 in sandpaper sheets. Shop more options in the Fine Sandpaper Collection.