Should I Sand or Buff After the Final Coat of Polyurethane?
Asked by CraftyNinja92
I'm working on a jewelry box and I really want the surface to be smooth and polished. I've already sanded, stained, and applied multiple coats of polyurethane, but the final finish always feels rough and uneven. After applying the last coat, should I sand it again? If so, what grit should I use—220 or 320? Also, are there any soft buffing cloths that would give a smoother finish than sandpaper?
Answers
Don't overlook the power of Scotchbrite pads! They're a great tool for polishing after you've done all the prep work. Just use them gently to avoid any scratches, especially if you're aiming for a glossy look.
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If you're shooting for a satin finish, let it cure well, then using the brown paper bag trick can be amazing. But for that glossy finish, consider investing in some micro mesh pads—they really do the trick!
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I've heard that using a brown paper bag works wonders for buffing out any imperfections — just make sure to use a fine grit. Some folks like to do a light sand with 400 grit after the last coat, then give it a good buff with the brown paper. It really helps achieve that smooth feel you're after!
SandingPro88: So you're telling me that a regular brown paper bag is all I need? Do I crumple it up or keep it flat when I use it?
CraftyNinja92: Yep, just a brown paper bag! You can try crumpling it a bit, just experiment to see what feels right.
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CraftyNinja92: Got it! I’m definitely going to look into those micro mesh pads. Thanks for the suggestion!