How to Sand Pine Furniture to Level Filler (Step-by-Step)

For pine furniture sanding with the goal to level filler, keep your grit jumps small and your passes consistent. These silicon carbide sheets support wet or dry use, so you can wet sand for cleaner cutting and reduced dust when needed.

Why Sanding Matters

Sanding controls flatness and scratch depth. A proper grit progression removes the previous scratches step by step, which is what makes the finish look even instead of hazy or scratched.

Tools

• Sanding block (flat surfaces)
• Foam hand pad (curves/contours)
• Vacuum or brush
• Microfiber cloth
• Optional: spray bottle + water for wet sanding

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit
• 120 grit
• 150 grit
• 180 grit

Step-by-Step

1. Clean first. Remove dust and residue so the abrasive cuts evenly.
2. Level and blend. Start with 80 Grit (100) to knock down highs and smooth transitions.
3. Refine scratches. Move to 120 Grit (100) until the previous grit marks are gone.
4. Final smoothing. Use 150 Grit (100) to leave a uniform surface ready for the next step.
5. Inspect. Check under angled light to catch deep lines early.
6. Final cleanup. Vacuum and wipe (and dry fully if wet sanded) before coating.

Special Cases

Edges: Feather strokes with lighter pressure to avoid rounding.
Clogging: Wet sanding helps reduce loading; wipe slurry often.
Between coats: Use the finest grit and sand only until sheen is evenly dulled.

Pro Tips

• Overlap passes to avoid striping and dull patches.
• Change direction slightly with each grit to spot leftover scratches.
• Use a block on flats to prevent finger grooves.
• Replace sheets when cutting slows; worn abrasive can burnish.

Aftercare

• Remove all dust before finishing to avoid defects.
• Store sheets flat and dry.
• If wet sanding, let the surface dry completely before primer/paint.

FAQs

• Can I use these wet? Yes—silicon carbide sheets are designed for wet or dry use.
• When do I move up a grit? When the scratch pattern is uniform and the previous grit scratches are gone.
• Do I need a sanding block? On flat areas, yes—it helps keep the surface level and prevents finger grooves.

Watch & Learn

Notice the cleanup between grits—removing dust and slurry prevents random deep scratches and keeps the finish consistent.

For repeatable results, follow the sequence and keep pressure light—start with 80 Grit (100) and step up for a smoother finish.