SandingProgression
Sanding Progression Guide
Bare Wood (New Project) — Grit Progression
The Sanding Progression Guide provides the optimal sequence of sanding grits for smooth, professional finishes. Learn the proper progression from rough sanding to final finishing.
Key Features
Recommended sanding grit sequences
Guidance for different wood types
Tips for hand and machine sanding
Sanding for various finishes
Dust collection recommendations
Troubleshooting common sanding issues
Sanding Progression
Select Starting Condition
Choose your starting point (rough wood, machined, previous finish removal)
Select Finish Type
Pick your intended finish (stain, oil, poly, etc.)
Review Progression
See the recommended grit sequence for your project
Apply to Project
Follow the progression for best results
Use Cases
Preparing wood for stain application
Achieving smooth finishes before polyurethane
Removing old finishes and paint
Preparing surfaces for fine woodworking
Frequently Asked Questions
What do sanding grit numbers mean?
Grit numbers indicate particle size. Higher numbers (220, 320) are finer; lower numbers (60, 80) are coarser.
Can I skip grit levels?
Skipping more than one grit level can leave scratches. Follow the progression for best results.
How much pressure should I use?
Use moderate pressure. Let the sandpaper do the work. Excessive pressure causes faster wear and can damage wood.
What grit is best for final sanding?
For most projects, sand with 180-220 grit before finishing for optimal smoothness.
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