Wet-sanding is a method of finishing wood.It is important to dry-sand the wood before varnishing.You need to soak wet sandpaper for a while before using it.Sand should always be kept wet and in gentle circles.You would usually sand the wood two or three times.
Step 1: There are several coats of varnish or lacquer on the wood.
Sanding removes a thin layer of finish or wood to smooth it out.lacquer or varnish should be applied before you dry sand.The finish can be applied with a brush or rag.Sand right through it if you don't apply enough finish.Most of the time, the finish that you choose is your own.Water- and oil-based finishes are used.Most of the time hardwoods and softwoods take two to three coats of finish.
Step 2: The varnish or lacquer should cure overnight.
The finish will need to dry for about an hour between coats if you follow the instructions.Allow it to cure overnight before you start sanding it.
Step 3: The wood is dry.
Hold the sandpaper with your hands or use an electric sander.Either way, start with 80 grit and work your way up to 100 and then 120.You are ready to wet sand if the wood feels smooth when you rub it.Continue dry-sanding with 150 and 180 grit.There is a point where wet-sanding is most effective.If you don't dry-sand first, it's pointless.If you use an electric sander, read the operator's manual carefully.If you sand by hand, use gentle forward and backward motions.
Step 4: The wood needs to be cleaned of dust.
Blow it off with a can of compressed air or a powered air compressor.Attach the hose to the vacuum and blow the dust off.If you don't have another option, get a clean rag and wet it with water.Remove the dust by wiping the wood.Before you continue, be sure to let it dry.
Step 5: You can choose between wet or dry.
Dry-sanding can be done with the same type of sandpaper.Dry sandpaper is not designed to hold up when wet.A smooth finish can be achieved by using a higher numbered grit of wet sandpaper.Sanding sponges conform to the surface better than sandpaper.Keep in mind that they might not have the strength you need.
Step 6: There is a choice of high-grit wet sandpaper.
You need to make sure to get a high grit to ensure a smooth surface.200 is the lowest you should use.It depends on how much time you have available.For 250, 500, 750, and 1000 grit, you can purchase wet sandpaper.If you want the wood to be smooth, start with the lowest.The second round of wet-sanding doesn't seem to make the wood any better.Stop after using the 500 grit paper.
Step 7: It's a good idea to soak the sandpaper in water overnight.
As you use it, it will dry out.To absorb as much water as possible, soak it overnight.If you are in a rush, soak it for at least 15 minutes.When you have the time, soaking is the best way to get it wet.
Step 8: Before you sand, dip the sandpaper in lubrication.
While soaking the sandpaper is helpful to prepare it, you still need to dip it in lubricant as you sand.If you want an effective lubricant, mix a solution of water and dish soap.Mineral spirits work well.You don't need to keep the sandpaper wet, but make sure it stays dry while you work.The paper should be wet every few minutes.
Step 9: The wood block or sponge needs to be wrapped around.
It is necessary to make sure a few square inches.Use a block or sponge to clean the wood.You won't cover as much if you hold the paper in your hand.This is not necessary, but it is the most efficient way to sand wood.
Step 10: Use circular motions to sand the surface.
Put a small amount of pressure on the wood.In circular motions, move your hand.You don't need to follow the grain of the wood while you sand.Keeping your hand moving along the wood is more important than staying in one spot.There are only one or two circular swipes needed for each spot.
Step 11: You should sand the wood in a pattern.
Start on one side of the piece of wood and finish on the other side.Sand back across toward the corner you started at after moving down the wood a bit.Sand from side to side until you have covered the entire surface.
Step 12: As you go, make sure to increase the amount of sandpaper in your hand.
Run your hand across the surface after giving it an even sanding.Leave it alone if it feels smooth to you.You can repeat the process if you want it to be smooth.Mineral spirits or water and dish soap should be used to wet each piece of sandpaper.
Step 13: You should clean the wood after sanding.
Dust can be left on the wood's surface by wet-sanding.You can use compressed air or a vacuum to remove the dust from the wood.To clean the wood, use a slightly damp cloth.
Step 14: If you want to apply a seal, apply one.
After you wet-sand, your wood will be smooth, but you may want to add more protection.It's a good idea to use a wood sealer.It needs to go over the finish you used.You should apply it with a rag or paper towel.