The Skill of Sanding
Sanding can make or break a project. It can provide the detail that determines the quality of a piece. Sanding is a process that involves the removal of a thin layer of wood or other materials from the surface of a project. Proper sanding is crucial and can make or break a project. This technique has been used for centuries, with the first recorded use of sandpaper in 13th-century China. Crushed shells, seeds, and sand were bonded to parchment using natural gum for this purpose.
Other natural materials, such as shark skin and boiled and dried horsetail plants, have also been used as abrasives. In 1833, John Oakey invented glass paper in London, which had sharp-edged particles that cut well, unlike sand grains that tend to smooth down.
In 1921, 3M introduced wet and dry sandpaper, which had silicon carbide grit and a waterproof adhesive and backing. This innovation allowed water to serve as a lubricant to carry away particles that would otherwise clog the grit.
Some rules to proper sanding
1) Sanding with the grain – scratches exist and blend in with the grain
2) Don’s skip a grit
3) Use good sandpaper with a strong backing
4) Use clean sandpaper. As you use sandpaper, tiny particles of wood dust get trapped between the grit particles in the sandpaper. The more dust that gets trapped, the less effectively the grit particles will cut. Eventually the sandpaper will stop cutting almost altogether.
5) Don’t clean with water. Wipe your sanded piece with tack paper to clean.
Proper sanding includes sanding with the grain, not skipping a grit, using good sandpaper with a strong backing, using clean sandpaper, and wiping your sanded piece with tack paper to clean it. Sanding well is a skill that requires good tools, techniques, and practice. Additionally, sandpaper grits are not consistent between brands, so it's best to stick to one brand for consistency.
Cheap sandpaper available at hardware stores and box stores tears easily, and the abrasive grit comes off quickly, making it a waste of money. Good quality sandpaper has a thicker backing that won't tear easily, and the grit stays in place as you use it. At Micro-Mark, sanding is a crucial process, and we have several unique power and hand tools that can help achieve better sanding results.
Micro-Mark has developed some unique sanding tools to help your various sanding projects. These sanding tools are both power tools and hand tools and are only available at Micro-Mark
The MicroLux Micro Sander is a compact and versatile sanding tool that is ideal for intricate sanding tasks. It features a high-speed motor that operates at 7,000 rpm, giving you precise control over the sanding process. The sanding head is flexible and can be adjusted to any angle, allowing you to reach tight spaces. The tool is built to last, with a durable steel body and machined aluminum head, and its motor is designed to be maintenance-free.
With the MicroLux Micro Sander, you get a set of sanding pads with various grits, from coarse to extra fine, making it easy to switch between grits or replace worn-out pads. This tool is perfect for anyone looking for precision, control, and versatility in their sanding tasks. Whether you're a woodworker, modeler, or crafter, this tool will become your go-to sanding tool for all your projects.
This sander is also designed to be compact and easy to use. Its small size makes it perfect for use on any workbench, and its easy-to-adjust table allows you to sand at the perfect angle. The dust port at the back of the machine allows you to easily connect a vacuum to keep your workspace clean, while the durable construction ensures that this sander will last for years to come. Whether you're a woodworker, modeler, or hobbyist, the 5" Bench Top Disc Sander from Micro-Mark is a must-have tool for your workshop.
The Sand-It from Micro-Mark is a versatile and convenient sanding tool that is perfect for model builders, crafters, and hobbyists. This tool features a unique design that allows you to sand a variety of surfaces, including flat surfaces, curved surfaces, and edges, with ease. Its sanding drum rotates at a high speed, providing a smooth and even finish to your workpiece.
The Sand-It is also designed to be compact and easy to use. Its small size makes it perfect for use on any workbench, and its ergonomic handle allows for comfortable and extended use. The Sand-It comes with a set of sanding drums with various grits, allowing you to tackle any sanding task. Whether you're working on a model or crafting project, the Sand-It from Micro-Mark is the perfect tool to help you achieve a smooth and even finish.
The Cosplay Mini Belt Sander Package from Micro-Mark is the perfect tool for anyone looking to create high-quality cosplay costumes. This sander features a powerful motor and a compact design that allows you to easily shape and sand various materials, including foam, plastic, and wood. Its variable speed control allows you to adjust the sanding speed to suit your needs, giving you complete control over your work.
The Cosplay Mini Belt Sander Package also comes with a set of sanding belts with various grits, allowing you to tackle any sanding task. Its small size makes it easy to use on any workbench or in any workspace, and its durable construction ensures that it will last for years to come. Whether you're a professional cosplayer or a beginner, the Cosplay Mini Belt Sander Package from Micro-Mark is the perfect tool to help you create high-quality costumes that are sure to impress.
The Softback Polishing Sticks from Infini Model are available at Micro-Mark and are a versatile and essential tool for anyone who works with wood, plastic, or metal. These polishing sticks come in a variety of grits, ranging from coarse to ultrafine, allowing you to achieve a smooth and even finish on any surface. The unique design of the sticks ensures that they are both flexible and durable, making them perfect for sanding and polishing curved or irregular surfaces.
In addition to their versatility, the Softback Polishing Sticks are also incredibly easy to use. They can be used with or without water or polishing compounds, and their unique design allows for easy removal and replacement. The sticks are also easy to clean, ensuring that they will last for years to come. Whether you're a professional craftsman or a hobbyist, the Softback Polishing Sticks from Micro-Mark are a must-have tool that will help you achieve a smooth and even finish on all your projects.
The Soft Touch Sanding and Polishing Pad Set from Micro-Mark is a must-have for anyone who works with wood, plastic, or metal. This set includes six pads with various grits, ranging from coarse to ultrafine, allowing you to tackle any sanding or polishing task. The pads are made from a unique material that is both flexible and durable, making them perfect for sanding and polishing curved or irregular surfaces.
The Soft Touch Sanding and Polishing Pad Set is also designed to be easy to use. The pads can be used with or without water or polishing compounds, and their unique design allows for easy removal and replacement. The pads are also easy to clean, ensuring that they will last for years to come. Wher you're a woodworker, model builder, hobbyist, the Soft Touch Sanding and Polishing Pad Set from Micro-Mark is the perfect tool to help you achieve a smooth and even finish on all your projects.
