How to Sand Guitar Bodies Before Painting with 220 Grit Sandpaper Sheets

Preparing a guitar body for paint is one of the most important steps in achieving a professional finish. Sanding ensures the surface is smooth, free of imperfections, and ready to accept primer and paint. eQualle 220 grit sandpaper sheets (9x11 in, Wet or Dry) are the perfect choice for this stage of guitar finishing.

Why 220 Grit for Guitar Bodies?

220 grit is a fine abrasive that smooths wood without over-polishing. It creates a uniform surface that primer can grip while leaving no visible scratches that would show through glossy finishes. This grit is ideal for bare wood preparation as well as sanding sealed surfaces before paint.

Tools You’ll Need

• eQualle 220 Grit Sandpaper sheets (9x11 in, Wet or Dry)
• Sanding block or orbital sander
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Protective mask and goggles

Step-by-Step: Sanding a Guitar Body

1. Inspect the surface. Look for dents, scratches, or glue spots that need smoothing.
2. Sand with 220 grit. Use 220 grit (100-pack) to smooth bare wood or sealed surfaces in even strokes with the grain.
3. Check curves and edges. Hand sand delicate contours to maintain the guitar’s shape.
4. Dust removal. Vacuum and wipe thoroughly with a tack cloth before priming.
5. Prime and paint. Apply primer, then sand lightly again with 220 grit before spraying color coats.

Special Cases

For unfinished guitar bodies with rough spots, start with 150 grit, then refine with 220. For high-gloss custom finishes, continue sanding through finer grits (320–400) before applying clear coat.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid scratches that show under paint.
• Replace sheets frequently—guitar sanding requires precision.
• Use a sanding sponge for rounded edges and cutaways.
• Always finish with a clean, dust-free surface before painting.

Aftercare

• Lightly sand between primer and paint coats with 220 grit for adhesion.
• Use ultra-fine grits (400+) between clear coats for glass-like smoothness.
• Store sandpaper sheets flat and dry to keep them in good condition.

FAQs

• Can I start sanding directly with 220 grit? Yes—for pre-sanded or sealed wood. Rough wood may require 150 grit first.
• Is 220 grit too fine before primer? No—it’s the ideal grit for adhesion and smoothness.
• Do I need to sand after primer? Yes—light sanding ensures paint bonds evenly.

Watch & Learn

Get flawless guitar finishes with eQualle 220 grit sandpaper sheets. Perfect for prepping wood bodies before primer and paint. Shop 220 grit sandpaper sheets today.