The Basics of Sanding: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Ever wonder why some DIY projects look sleek and professional while others turn out rough and uneven? The secret is proper sanding! Here’s a guide on the best techniques, tools, and tricks to get a smooth, polished finish every time.

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Sanding is one of those steps that might not seem like a big deal…until you skip it and end up with a rough, uneven finish. Trust me, we know from years of experience. Tyler and I have spent years working on DIY projects, from furniture builds to woodworking projects, and if there’s one thing we know that’s critical, it’s sanding. Whether you’re building furniture, refinishing a piece, or just trying to prevent splinters, sanding the right way makes all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about sanding, including the best tools, techniques, and tips to make the process easier and more effective.

Why Sanding Matters

Sanding does more than just smooth out rough edges. It preps the surface for stain, paint, or a natural finish, removes tool marks, and helps eliminate small imperfections. Without proper sanding, finishes won’t adhere as well, and rough spots or divots can become more noticeable once the final coat is applied.

For most DIY woodworking projects, sanding helps:

Remove splinters and rough patches
Open the wood grain for better stain or paint absorption
Eliminate scratches and marks from cutting or planing
Create a clean, polished finish

Skipping or rushing through sanding can lead to uneven surfaces, blotchy stain absorption, or even paint that peels too soon. Taking the time to do it right is worth the effort.

Understanding Sandpaper Grits

Sandpaper is labeled with a number that indicates how rough or fine it is. Lower numbers mean coarser grit, while higher numbers create a smoother finish.

Common Sandpaper Grits and When to Use Them

40-60 grit – Extra coarse, best for stripping paint or shaping rough wood
80-120 grit – Medium, great for smoothing out freshly cut or planed boards
150-180 grit – Fine, ideal for final sanding before applying stain or paint
220+ grit – Extra fine, used between coats of finish for an ultra-smooth surface

Most DIY woodworking projects start with 80 or 120 grit, then move up to 180 or 220 grit depending on the final finish. If you’re staining, stopping at 180 grit is usually best, while painted surfaces may need a final sanding at 220 grit.

Our favorite eco-friendly wood finish is Rubio Monocoat as it’s super easy to apply, only requires one layer, and gives a high-quality, professional look to the final piece.

Hand Sanding vs. Power Sanders

Sanding by hand works well for small projects, edges, and delicate details, but for larger surfaces, power sanders save time and effort.

Types of Power Sanders

Belt Sander – Best for removing a lot of material quickly, but not ideal for fine finishing
Palm (Finishing) Sander – Good for small projects, but can leave swirl marks
Random Orbital Sander – The best all-around option for DIYers, offering a smooth, swirl-free finish.
Detail Sander – Great for tight spaces, corners, and intricate designs

For most DIY projects, a random orbital sander is the best choice. It’s versatile, easy to use, and provides a clean finish without noticeable sanding patterns.

Our favorite random orbital sander
Sometimes hand sanding is still needed on tight spaces

Best Sandpaper for DIYers

Ceramic sandpaper lasts the longest and cuts the fastest, making it a great investment for frequent projects. Our top pick is 3M Cubitron II Extract Sanding Disks because they stay sharp longer and work well with dust extraction systems.

Check out our DIY Hub for more resources!

Grit Progression: How to Sand in Steps

For a smooth, professional finish, always start with a coarser grit and work up to finer grits.

Start with 80 grit – Removes rough spots and evens out the surface
Move to 120 grit – Smooths out any remaining roughness
Finish with 180-220 grit – Prepares the wood for stain, paint, or oil

Skipping grits can lead to uneven surfaces or visible sanding scratches after finishing.

Pro Sanding Techniques for a Better Finish

Sanding isn’t just about moving sandpaper back and forth. Using the right techniques ensures an even, smooth surface without gouges or swirl marks.

Key Sanding Tips

Sand with the grain – Always move in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches, although this is less important when you have a random orbital sander, but critical with regular sanders and sandpaper.
Apply light pressure – Let the sandpaper do the work; pressing too hard can create uneven spots
Keep the sander flat – Tilting can dig into the wood, causing dips and uneven areas
Use a pencil guide – Lightly scribble on the surface with a pencil before sanding; when the marks disappear, you’ve sanded evenly

Using a shop vac attached to your sander can also help keep your workspace cleaner and prevent dust buildup on your sandpaper.

Knowing When to Change Sandpaper

Dull sandpaper doesn’t cut efficiently and can leave burn marks on wood. If sanding starts taking longer, requires more pressure, or if the surface isn’t smoothing out as expected, it’s time for a new sheet.

A good rule of thumb is to change sandpaper every 20-30 minutes of continuous use. Cleaning it with a sandpaper cleaning block can help extend its life by removing built-up dust and debris.

Eco-Friendly Sanding: Reduce Waste and Reuse

Sanding generates a lot of dust and waste, but a few simple habits can make the process more eco-friendly.

Save worn sandpaper for hand sanding – Even dull sheets work well for edges and small touch-ups
Use a dust extraction system – Keeps dust to a minimum and extends the life of your sandpaper
Choose long-lasting sanding discs – Higher-quality sandpaper, like the 3M Xtract, lasts longer, reducing waste over time

Spending a little extra on high-quality sanding discs saves money in the long run since they last longer and work more efficiently.

Sanding for a Professional-Looking DIY Project

Sanding might not be the most exciting part of a project, but it’s one of the most important. Taking the time to do it right will give your projects a smoother finish, better stain or paint adhesion, and a more polished look overall.

Invest in the right sandpaper and use a good sander. A little patience and technique go a long way toward getting professional-quality results in your DIY woodworking projects.

Check out more of our DIY projects articles for inspiration!

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Have a question about sanding? Drop it in the comments below or let us know if you have any other tips or tricks you love when it comes to sanding.

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Please note that I’ve linked to these products purely because I recommend them and they are from companies I trust. There is no additional cost to you.