Sanding Birch; Smooth Port

[OrionStang]

I am going to sand my port as smooth as possible (without filler or resin). I have 80, 120, and 220 grit sand paper. The birch is fairly smooth to begin with, should I use all 3 grits? Or just jump to the 220?

[Jessica]

if you do it by hand you could start with 80, otherwise that stuff will eat that birch for lunch!

[OrionStang]

Yep hand sanding.

[Jessica]

Of course go with the grain. But you probably know that. Just feel guilty if i don't say it

[sprkn_ranger]

I'm not sure if it works on plywood or not, but I know on hardwoods, you can wipe the wood with a damp cloth to lift the grain before sanding and it helps get a really smooth finish.

[OrionStang]

Would laying a layer of resin be better? Like a very thin coat, then sand that down?

[certifiednut]

i wouldnt use the 80 unless you have imperfections you need to work out, starting at 120 would work great

[OrionStang]

I'm not sure if it works on plywood or not, but I know on hardwoods, you can wipe the wood with a damp cloth to lift the grain before sanding and it helps get a really smooth finish.

Cool, can't hurt to try.

[OrionStang]

i wouldnt use the 80 unless you have imperfections you need to work out, starting at 120 would work great

I was hoping someone would say that LOL. This birch is grade A.

[certifiednut]

if you dont want to mess with the resin, you could put a coat or 2 of sanding sealer, it sands smooth as hell.