How to Sand & Polish Epoxy Resin to a Mirror Finish (400–2000 Grit Wet Sanding Guide)

Scratches, cloudiness, or orange peel in epoxy resin? You can fix all three with a careful wet-sanding sequence and a final polish. This guide explains the correct grits, pressure, and workflow for a flat, glassy surface on river tables, coasters, and bar tops.

Before You Start

• Let epoxy fully cure per the manufacturer (often 72 hours+). If it gums the paper, wait longer.
• Use a soft foam interface pad so you don’t create low spots on waves or edges.
• Keep the surface just wet—too much water hides scratch tracking; too little can clog the paper.

Recommended Grit Progression (Wet Only)

• 400 grit — knock down dust nibs, runs, and orange peel.
• 600 grit — erase 400 marks and even the sheen.
• 800 grit — refine to a fine, uniform haze.
• 1000 grit — pre-polish finish that buffs quickly.
• 1500–2000 grit — remove micro-marring and shorten compounding time.

Step-by-Step

1. Level high spots. Use 400 on a foam pad. Straight, overlapping passes; avoid edges and corners until last.
2. Track your progress. Wipe clean and change direction with each grit (e.g., left–right, then front–back) so remaining scratches are obvious.
3. Rinse often. Clean the surface and paper frequently. Slurry left on the pad can scratch.
4. Finish at 1500–2000. Create a tight, even haze—no visible lines under raking light.
5. Polish. Use a plastic-safe compound and a foam finishing pad. Work until the surface turns crystal clear, then wipe with a clean microfiber.
6. Protect. Optional: apply a resin-safe sealant or wax after full cure for added gloss and smudge resistance.

Pro Tips

• Mask wood edges—resin sands faster than hardwood, so keep pressure balanced.
• Use pencil squiggles as a guide coat; when they disappear evenly, you’re flat.
• Silicon carbide sheets support Wet or Dry Use (Uso en Seco o Húmedo); for epoxy, stick to wet to avoid heat and dust.

Shop the Grits

• Grit 400
• Grit 600
• Grit 800
• Grit 1000
• Grit 1500
• Grit 2000
• Fine Sandpaper Collection

Watch & Learn

Result: A flat, mirror-gloss epoxy surface with no swirls or haze—ready for close-up photos and daily use.

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