Tackle difficult sanding with ease

What makes the woodworking world go round? (Okay, besides a lathe.) There are different sizes and dimensions for wood-crafted jobs with varying types of wood. Furniture, windows, doors, cabinets, railings, and more have curves and ornate designs that make these products beautiful. But these designs and styles can create sanding challenges.  

We have some recommendations on which products and options to use for your sanding projects. Best of all, we have recommendations that don’t require hand-sanding.  

Irregular surfaces: sanding sponges

When you have odd-shaped surfaces, you need more control. Sanding sponges (also known as sanding mops or stars) are perfect for these jobs. These sponges come in different sizes, grades, and configurations to conform to the object you have. There are a variety of sizes and grits for what you want to do, too. For example, you should be considering the wood’s size and the type of wood you’re sanding. Sponges enable more detailed work with the ultimate in control.  

For those fine jobs, we recommend 3M. 3M is known for its quality and is made in the U.S. The 3M Elite Fine Finishing sander is a great option. 

Tight spaces plus profile and edge sanding … without hand-sanding 

We know it’s strange to lump challenges together. But in this case, there’s a product that can tackle these different issues, including shaker doors, with minimal effort while saving time and money. Uneeda has an entire sanding system to help woodworkers.  

The Uneeda EkaSilk Plus sanding system helps craftsmen sand better in three areas, tackling jobs traditionally done with hand sanding or circular orbital discs. This system starts off with having a wide array of sizes and hole patterns available, which makes this a versatile product. The most common however is the 3” X 4” size used on a small orbital as it is the perfect size for shaker-style doors and sanding more intricate profiles and contours. It also has three different thicknesses. Each thickness provides a benefit over hand sanding. 

 Other advantages include: 

• Hook and loop attachment for quick change-outs 
• Eliminates hand sanding for raised panels or irregular profiles 
• Consistent finish throughout  
• Durability thanks to a tear-resistant construction  

This system has other sizes and forms for maximum versatility.  Uneeda also has varying holes to reduce dust collection.

Sanding sizes, grits, and grades 

Uneeda carries a variety.

• 5MM can eliminate all hand sanding for flat situations.  From raw wood prep (pre-stain and primer) all the way through the final finish.  
• 10MM is perfect for Shaker door sanding or other situations where flat sanding up against an obstacle is a challenge.  
• ½ inch is perfect for all those irregular contours.  With the ½-inch thick foam, it’s conformable to all types of curves and profiles. This inch thickness can really cut or eliminate the hand sanding of these types of contours to a minimum.  

Because of the unique nature of EkaSilkPlus sponge construction, the performance and scratch patterns are different than a conventional abrasive disc, for example. Use the Uneeda chart to choose the right grade for your application and desired finish.

Woodworking to metalworking 

These days, furniture makers, cabinet specialists, and other traditional woodworkers are dealing with metals, too. You’re flexible; your sanding systems should be, too. Instead of buying a whole new set of tools, there are some sanding systems that jump from woodworking to metalworking with you.  

The Dynabrade 57910 – Dynafile Detail Sander and Versatility Kit, made in the USA, is just what it says it is: versatile. These systems are …   

• Non-vacuum 
• Hook face and PSA compatible 
• Variable speed control 
• Variety of abrasives and shapes available 
• 3/32 Orbital pattern for fine finishing, too 

Other tough sanding jobs?

Did we miss one of your tough sanding jobs? Need help deciding which grade to use or which system?

That’s where Elevated Industrial Solutions, formerly known as Lane Supply Company, comes in. For more than 60 years, we’ve been helping woodworking businesses, just like yours, get the right tools and products. From instrument manufacturers to door manufacturing, your job is in good hands. And even if the products we recommend aren’t your favorites, we can help supply your business with what you love. Using our vendor relationships, our specialty is your hard-to-find items.