This video was created by Jodee from Inspire Woodcraft. It covers ten practical tips to help you get cleaner, smoother sanding results using a random orbital sander.
Sanding is one of the most important finishing steps in woodworking, and using your sander correctly makes a big difference. Whether you’re new to woodworking or just want better results, these tips will help you avoid common mistakes and save time in the shop.
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Understand What Makes an Orbital Sander Different
Random orbital sanders combine circular and elliptical motions to avoid swirl marks while still removing material efficiently. This makes them a go-to tool for everything from flattening panels to prepping surfaces for finish.
Knowing how to use this motion to your advantage is key. Jodee explains why technique matters more than speed when it comes to clean sanding.
Choose the Right Grit for the Job
Start with a coarse grit like 60 or 80 if you need to remove material quickly. Then work your way up through 120, 150, and 220 for finer smoothing.
Switching grits too quickly or skipping steps can leave uneven surfaces. Gradual progression is one of the simplest ways to ensure a smooth, even finish.
Keep the Sander Moving
Pausing too long in one spot causes low spots or burn marks. Jodee demonstrates how to move the sander in overlapping passes to maintain consistency across the entire surface.
Even pressure and steady movement are better than pushing hard or rushing the job. The tool does the work—you just guide it.
Don’t Push Too Hard
Excessive pressure can bog down the sander and damage the surface. Let the weight of the tool and the abrasiveness of the paper do the cutting.
If you feel the sander fighting back or see dark swirls, back off and reduce pressure. Lighter touch equals cleaner results.
Keep the Sandpaper Clean and Sharp
Clogged sandpaper doesn’t cut effectively and creates more dust. Wipe or brush off the disc regularly and replace it when it stops removing material efficiently.
Jodee also points out that worn paper can create heat, which may burnish the wood instead of sanding it.
Always Sand with the Grain
This applies especially during the final grits. Going against the grain can cause cross-scratches that only show up after finishing.
By following the grain direction, you reduce visible scratches and bring out the natural patterns of the wood more cleanly.
Use a Dust Collection System
Orbital sanders throw off a lot of fine dust. Connecting your sander to a shop vac or using its built-in dust bag keeps your workspace cleaner and improves visibility.
Reducing airborne dust is also better for your lungs and your shop’s air quality overall.
Try Different Techniques for Different Surfaces
Flat panels benefit from straight, overlapping passes, while curved parts or corners may need a light circular or random motion. Jodee explains how to adjust your sanding motion depending on the surface shape.
If one technique isn’t giving you the results you want, change up your pattern and see what works best.
Test on Scrap First
Before you move to your final workpiece, test your sanding setup on a scrap board. This lets you check grit choice, surface response, and technique before committing.
It’s a simple step, but it can prevent a lot of frustration, especially with softer woods or sensitive finishes.
Finish by Hand Where Needed
Even after a thorough orbital sanding, hand sanding helps smooth out edges, inside corners, and small defects. It also lets you feel for rough patches that your sander might have missed.
Combining power sanding with a few minutes of hand sanding gives you the best of both worlds—efficiency and detail.
A Better Finish Starts with Better Sanding
Following these ten tips will help you get smoother results and reduce sanding time. With the right technique, a well-maintained sander, and a bit of patience, you’ll be amazed how much cleaner your projects turn out.
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