Sanding isn’t the most exciting part of a woodworking project, but it’s one of the most important. Whether you’re building a live edge table, creating wall art, or crafting a custom piece from hardwood, taking the time to sand properly will make all the difference in your finished product.
Here are my top tips to help you get the best results.
1. Don’t Skip the Lower Grits
If your wood has saw marks, rough spots, or imperfections, start with a coarser grit like 80 or 100. Trying to jump straight to a fine grit will only make the process take longer and leave imperfections behind. If you’re able to use a planer first that always helps.
2. Work Through the Grits
Rather than making big jumps, gradually work your way through the sandpaper. A progression like 80, 120, 150, and 220 grit creates a much smoother finish and removes scratches from the previous grit.
3. Sand With the Grain
Always sand in the direction of the wood grain whenever possible. Sanding across the grain leaves scratches that become much more noticeable once you apply stain or finish.
4. Let the Sander Do the Work
There’s no need to press hard. Applying too much pressure can create uneven spots and swirl marks. A light, steady hand produces a much cleaner surface.
5. Don’t Forget the Edges
Sharp edges can splinter or chip over time. A quick pass with fine sandpaper softens the edges just enough while giving your project a more finished, professional appearance.
6. Check Your Work in Good Lighting
Sometimes scratches disappear under shop lighting but stand out once the project is inside. Use natural light or shine a light across the surface to spot imperfections before moving on.
7. Remove Dust Between Grits
Dust can act like extra sandpaper and leave unwanted scratches. Vacuum your project or wipe it down with a clean cloth before switching to the next grit.
8. Know When to Stop
For many woodworking projects, sanding beyond 220 grit isn’t necessary. Going too fine can actually make it harder for some stains and finishes to penetrate evenly.
9. Pay Extra Attention to Live Edge Pieces
Live edge wood often has curves, bark pockets, and natural character. Hand sanding these areas helps preserve their unique shape while smoothing rough spots that power sanders can easily miss.
10. Remember: Sanding Sets the Stage
The quality of your finish depends on the quality of your sanding. Taking an extra 20 minutes during preparation can be the difference between a project that looks homemade and one that looks professionally crafted.
It only requires one coat, it’s super durable, and 0% voc. (Seriously one of my faves!)
Every woodworking project has its own personality, and no two pieces of wood are exactly alike. Learning how different woods respond to sanding is part of the craft. Slow down, enjoy the process, and don’t rush to the finish line—the time you spend preparing the surface is what makes the grain, colour, and natural beauty of the wood truly shine.
Whether I’m creating a live edge table, carving wall art, or building a custom piece, I’ve learned that great craftsmanship always starts with a well-prepared surface.