Use the following sanding sequences for raw wood.
PAINTED: First sand with 120 grit, followed by 150 grit.
WATER BASED STAINS AND CLEAR COATS:
- For closed-grain woods (such as Cherry, Pine, Maple, Birch or Alder) that will be stained with water-based products, use 150-grit, followed 220-grit.
- For open grained woods (such as Oak, Ash, Mahogany, Parawood ) that will be stained with water-based products, use 120-grit, followed by 150, then 180-grit.
- For wood that will be clear-coated with a water-based topcoat, use 120 grit, followed by 150 or 220 grit.
OIL BASED STAINS & TOPCOATS:
- For wood that will be stained with an oil-based product use 120-grit, followed by 150-grit.
- For wood that will be clear coated with an oil-based topcoat, sand up to 150-grit.
IMPORTANT:
Do not over sand! Over sanding will close the pores of the wood and it will not accept the finish.