Sanding 101: How to Smooth Like a Pro (Even if You’re a Total Beginner)
- Lauren Twitchell
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
Let’s talk about sanding.
It’s not flashy. It’s not loud. And it does’t come with that “power tool adrenaline.” But it is one of the most important steps in every woodworking project.
Sand can take your work from rough and rustic to smooth and stunning. Whether you’re building a sign, shelf, or small table - how you sand makes a big difference in the final look and feel of your piece.
What Does Sanding Actually Do?
Sanding:
Smooths rough wood
Removes splinters and mill marks
Preps surfaces for paint, stain, or sealer
Helps your finish go on evenly and last longer
Skipping it or rushing through it? You’ll probably regret it later.
Manual vs. Power Sanding: What Should You Use?
Hand Sanding:
Great for small areas or detail work
Uses basic sandpaper or a sanding block
Slower but gives you more control
Power Sanding:
Use an orbital sander for larger surfaces (easy for beginners!)
Faster and more consistent
Still needs a final pass by hand sometimes
Tip: Let the tool do the work. Don’t press down too hard.
Understanding Grit: The Sandpaper Secret
Sandpaper is rated by grit number - the lower the number, the rougher it is.
60 - 80 grit: Heavy sanding (removing old finish or smoothing rough wood)
120-150 grit: Mid-level smoothing
220 grit and up: Fine finishing before paint/stain
For beginners, a great 3-step combo is:
80 - 150 - 220
Sanding Like a Pro - Step-by-Step
Start with rougher grit (80-100)
Sand with the grain of the wood - not against it
Work your way up to finer grit
Wipe between grits with a tack cloth or clean rag
Don’t rush! Take your time, especially on edges
Common Sanding Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Skipping grits
Sanding too aggressively in one spot
Using dull sandpaper
Forgetting to wipe off the dust before finishing
Third Shift Tip:
If your project still feels a little rough even after sanding - try sanding again with just your hand and a soft pad. You’ll be amazed what a final pass can do!
Reminder: You Don’t Need to Be an Expert
Sanding is skill that improves with every project. It doesn’t need to be perfect - just intentional. Trust the process. You’re learning, and your hands are creating something beautiful.
You’ve got this. Smooth moves, builder.
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