The Best Sandpapers for Woodworking Projects

Sanding is one of the most important steps in woodworking. Choosing the right sandpaper can make the difference between a rough, uneven surface and a smooth, professional-grade finish. In this guide, we’ll list the best sandpapers for various woodworking tasks and their applications.

Recommended Grits for Woodworking

Grit 80 – Heavy Material Removal

• Purpose: Removes old finishes, levels uneven wood, and shapes rough edges.
• Use Case: Stripping paint from furniture or prepping rough-cut lumber.

Grit 120 – General Smoothing

• Purpose: Smooths rough surfaces and prepares wood for finer sanding or staining.
• Use Case: Refining wooden shelves, tables, or DIY projects before painting or staining.

Grit 150 – Preparing for Finishing

• Purpose: Light smoothing and surface prep for finishing coats.
• Use Case: Smoothing cabinet doors or tabletops before applying varnish or lacquer.

Grit 220 – Final Surface Prep

• Purpose: Prepares wood for staining, painting, or sealing.
• Use Case: Sanding between coats of finish or smoothing bare wood for a professional look.

Grit 400 – Fine Finishing

• Purpose: Smooths clear coats and fine wood finishes for a polished look.
• Use Case: Prepping furniture or cabinets for a glossy topcoat.

Grit 600 – Polishing

• Purpose: Achieves ultra-smooth finishes and polishes wood surfaces.
• Use Case: Polishing fine furniture or restoring antique wooden items.

Tips for Choosing and Using Sandpaper for Woodworking

• Start Coarse: Begin with a coarse grit like Grit 80 or Grit 120 to remove imperfections.
• Progress Gradually: Move through finer grits such as Grit 150, Grit 220, and Grit 400 for a smooth finish.
• Sand with the Grain: Always sand along the wood grain to avoid scratches and grooves.
• Clean Between Stages: Remove dust and debris between sanding stages for the best results.

Shop eQualle Sandpaper for Woodworking

eQualle’s sandpapers are designed with precision and durability in mind. From Grit 80 to Grit 600, our abrasives ensure smooth, professional finishes for all your woodworking projects. Explore our full range of products here.