Thread: how to get scratches from sanding out

Originally Posted by gssixgun

Are you using the WD-40/Oil trick on the grits starting at 400 ????

Trick ????

Very easy trick

Once you hit the 400 grit level you do the normal dry pass, then using that same piece of paper, you spray on some WD-40 or light oil (NOT water) and do another pass.. It basically creates a slurry and really helps with getting a glow out of the finish...

Havent tried that what oil is best wd 40? Neetsfoot?

And I hand sand to 1500 thats highest paper I can find here

Originally Posted by 2010johnjef

And I hand sand to 1500 thats highest paper I can find here

I am betting that what you are missing is that you are leaving scratches from the previous grit behind when you move up to the next level. As said the best way to avoid this is go a different direction each grit and look close to make sure all the scratches going the other way are gone before you move up. Even then you may miss a few but they will show up in a few grits. If they do back up and get them. If you think they will eventually come out as you go you may find out different in the end. Believe me, it is faster to watch as you go. Backing up sucks and you realize that you have wasted a lot of time at the higher grit. Try to finish with the last grit you have going edge to spine this includes any buffer you might use.

Remember all razors have original grind marks (for the most part). These are not really blemishes unless they are so spotty or leave your sanding work looking obvious.

Ok so start north south with one grit then east west and continue this pattern? I forgot who tood me but I was told to sand in a circular motion

That's the way I do it and it works the best for me :<0) All the other tips and tricks are good I just use this as a basic way of doing things myself. I have found it less frustrating and faster in the long run.

I can't imagine doing that many tiny circles for hours. In some cases this may be the best way. Like maybe working around etchings at very fine grits.

You will find what works best for you in each case and point in time. My point was about removing scratches that seem to show up when you do your final polishing.

Look in the automotive section of what ever store your in if they have one, or go to an auto supply. They will likely have higher grit wet/dry sand papers for autobody finishing.

Wet sanding fiberglass can be done with water. When wet sanding steels and other various metals use WD-40. I spray the piece being sanded very well then sand away. I then spray again to remove the dirty slurry after a while and start over. I use 400, 800, and then 2000.