Sanding Resin Coasters: Glossy, Professional Finish

Resin coasters are a fun DIY project, but they rarely come out of molds perfectly smooth. Sanding is the key step that levels surfaces, removes sharp edges, and prepares coasters for a glossy polish or topcoat. With the right grits, your coasters will look professional and durable.

Why Sanding Coasters Matters

Fresh resin often has uneven edges, bubbles, or rough patches. Sanding removes these imperfections, ensuring coasters sit flat and look clear. Skipping sanding leaves surfaces cloudy or sharp to the touch.

Essential Tools

• Wet/dry silicon carbide sandpaper
• Sanding block or foam pad
• Water bowl for wet sanding
• Polishing compound
• Microfiber cloths

Best Sandpaper Grits for Resin Coasters

• 400 grit: Level uneven edges and surfaces (400 Grit (100-pack)).
• 800 grit: Smooth scratches and refine finish (800 Grit (25-pack)).
• 1500 grit: Pre-polishing clarity stage (1500 Grit (50-pack)).
• 3000 grit: Final sanding before polishing for crystal clarity.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Resin Coasters

1. Clean. Wash coasters to remove dust and residue.
2. Start with 400 grit. Wet sand to flatten and smooth rough areas.
3. Switch to 800 grit. Refine surface, reducing scratches.
4. Move to 1500 grit. Wet sand lightly for clarity.
5. Finish with 3000 grit. Prepare for polishing compound.
6. Polish. Buff with compound to restore glass-like shine.

Special Cases

Colored or glitter-filled coasters may require lighter pressure to avoid sanding through design layers. Always sand evenly across surfaces to maintain shape.

Pro Tips

• Wet sand to prevent resin dust and overheating.
• Sand in circular motions for even results.
• Check progress by drying coasters between grits.

Aftercare

• Seal with food-safe resin or polish for durability.
• Clean with mild soap, avoiding harsh chemicals.
• Re-polish occasionally to maintain shine.

FAQs

• Do all resin coasters need sanding? Yes—mold marks and unevenness are common.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes, sanding blocks help apply even pressure.
• Do I need to polish after sanding? Yes, to restore full clarity.

Watch & Learn

Sanding resin coasters is the secret to professional-looking results. Explore our ultra-fine sanding sheets for your next resin project.