How to fine tune your perfect sanding project

The perfect smoothness of a newly painted wall, the silky flawlessness of an oak floor, the dazzling gleam of a well varnished table top! All these are the signs of a job done well. And all are made possible by the proven, meticulous and systematic application of sandpaper.

According to Norm Abram, the head carpenter at Old House, “Pushing sandpaper often seems like an endless job”. However, the secret to getting the best results possible with the least tedium and hassle is choosing the right kind of sandpaper for the job.

Squiggles and Orbital Sanding Discs

Random-orbit sanders and orbital sanding discs are more efficient and give a finer sanding result than most other types of sandpapers. However, orbital sanding discs tend to leave some cross-grain marks in the wood afterwards. These are called ‘squiggles’ in the sanding lingo. The best way to remove these marks and flaws is to sand them out by hand. You need to apply the sanding procedure in the direction of the grain after sanding to the finest grit with the sander, which is usually in the range of #180 or #220. Following this process is especially important if you are staining.

Film-building Finishes and Palmer Sander Sheets

In order to fine tune your sanding project and attain those perfect looking film-building finishes, use either palmer sander sheets or the adhesive-backed sandpaper sheets. Both are ideal for producing a great varnish, a lacquer, a shellac, or even a water-based finish. Sand fine using a #180 grit for best results.