With so many options available on the abrasive market, shopping for the right sandpaper can be confusing and tedious. It’s important to select the right type of sandpaper for the precise wood finish you want. Achieving this effectively is possible by learning about various abrasives and the finishes they give to wood. Read on to learn a few things about the most popular types of sandpaper and what types of woodworking projects they are recommended or used for.
sandpaper and purposes
Getting the exact finish you’re looking for starts with the right type of sandpaper. It is the key to a successful project. Not only will it play an important role in achieving the look and finish you want, but it will make the project easier and allow you to do it more efficiently. Imagine having to hang a large, heavy picture frame on the wall. You wouldn’t use a small eyeglass screwdriver. Not only would this take forever and be extremely difficult, but you couldn’t possibly achieve your desired results this way. I’d use a power drill instead because that’s the right tool for the job. The same idea applies to woodworking and sanding.
sandpaper grades
Also known as glass paper, sandpaper is an abrasive made from aggregate materials such as metal, rock, and glass. They come in the form of large rolls, sheets or disks and bands. Although they all seem to look alike, there are big differences between all of them. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for in an abrasive. Here is a list of the most common types of sandpaper:
- Aluminum oxide
- Silicium carbide
- Flint
- Garnet
- Ceramic
All sandpaper can be classified into one of six categories, based on the number of abrasive particles (grit) per square inch. The categories are as follows:
The race – Coarse sanding abrasives contain between 40 and 60 grits. These are best for heavy-duty woodworking and finishing projects.
Medium – Medium abrasives are between 80 and 120 grit and are used to remove minor blemishes and defects and to smooth wood surfaces.
Penalty fee – Fine sandpaper holds between 150 and 180 grit. They are generally used for the final smoothing before applying the finish.
Very well – Very fine abrasive contains between 220 and 240 grains. These are best used for sanding wood between staining and sealing.
extra fine – These have between 280 and 320 grain. Between coats of finish, the extra-thin paper removes dust spots and minor blemishes like these.
super fine – The finest sandpaper contains 360 grit or more. They are typically used in the final stages of a woodworking project.
