Uses for Each Sandpaper Grit: A Comprehensive Guide for DIY Enthusiasts

When tackling a DIY project, choosing the right sandpaper grit is essential for achieving smooth finishes and professional results. Here’s a breakdown of the most common sandpaper grits and their applications:

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1/28/20251 min read

P40–P60 (Coarse Grit)

Application: Bumps in wood, old paints & finishes, rough lumber.

Ideal For: Removing large imperfections and layers quickly.

P80 (Medium-Coarse Grit)

Application: Starting grit for hardwoods, shallow scratches, saw blade burns.

Ideal For: Prepping wood for finer sanding stages.

P120 (Medium Grit)

Application: Starting grit for softwoods, prepping for polyurethane & enamel paints.

Ideal For: Smoothing surfaces without being too aggressive.

P180 (Fine Grit)

Application: Raised wood grain fibers, surface irregularities, prep for latex & acrylics.

Ideal For: Creating a clean base before painting.

P220 (Fine Grit)

Application: 2nd & 3rd level sanding, surface finishing, prep for wood stain.

Ideal For: Light refinishing and stain application prep.

P320 (Very Fine Grit)

Application: Sanding between coats, 3rd & 4th level sanding, wet sanding.

Ideal For: Smoothing layers of paint or varnish.

P400 (Very Fine Grit)

Application: Final surface finishing grit, smoothing topcoats, prep for finishing oils.

Ideal For: Achieving a glass-like finish on delicate surfaces.

P600+ (Ultra-Fine Grit)

Application: Polishing, metals & plastics, fine wet sanding.

Ideal For: Creating a polished, mirror-like surface.

Pro Tip: Always work from a coarser grit to a finer one to avoid damaging the material and achieve the best finish.

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