Assembling wooden cases requires careful attention to detail and a number of steps to be carried out before you can achieve the perfect end result. One of these steps is sanding the inside of each piece as this will save a lot of work when it is time to spray the polycrylic.
In order to make this step easier, you will need to use a random orbit sander, which can be easily attached to a small shop vacuum to limit the dust in the air. This is important as sawdust is not only messy and difficult to clean up, but can also pose serious health risks if inhaled.
In this article, we will outline the steps involved in sanding wooden cases, review the equipment needed, and offer tips and advice for achieving a smooth and polished finish.
Steps for Sanding Wooden Cases
Step 1: Gather Materials
Before beginning the sanding process, it is important to have all the necessary equipment on hand. This includes a random orbit sander, sandpaper discs (80- and 120-grit), a small shop vacuum, and a dust mask.
Step 2: Prepare the Work Area
To minimize the amount of dust produced during sanding, it is important to prepare the work area properly. Ideally, the work area should be well-ventilated and free of any objects that could become damaged by sawdust.
If you are sanding indoors, it may be necessary to cover nearby objects with plastic sheeting to protect them from dust. You should also consider using a dust collection system to help keep the dust under control.
Step 3: Sand the Inside of Each Piece
Once you have prepared the work area and gathered your materials, it is time to begin sanding the inside of each piece. Start with an 80-grit sandpaper disc and gradually move up to a 120-grit sandpaper disc.
It is important to move the sander in a circular motion, while applying light pressure to the surface. You should also make sure to work in a consistent pattern, moving from one end of the piece to the other.
During the sanding process, be sure to keep the vacuum hose close to the sander to minimize the amount of sawdust in the air.
Step 4: Inspect the Surface
After you have finished sanding each piece, it is important to inspect the surface for any remaining rough spots or uneven areas. If necessary, sand these areas again with the 120-grit sandpaper disc until the surface is completely smooth.
Tips and Advice for Sanding Wooden Cases
1. Use a Random Orbit Sander
A random orbit sander is the best choice for sanding wooden cases as it provides a smooth and even finish without leaving visible swirl marks.
2. Attach a Shop Vacuum
When sanding, it is important to limit the amount of sawdust in the air to minimize health risks and to prevent the dust from settling on nearby objects. To achieve this, you can attach a shop vacuum to your sander to collect the sawdust as you work.
3. Work in a Consistent Pattern
To achieve a smooth and polished finish, it is important to work in a consistent pattern when sanding. Move the sander in a circular motion and work from one end of the piece to the other.
4. Inspect the Surface Carefully
After completing each sanding step, inspect the surface carefully for any remaining rough spots or uneven areas. If necessary, sand these areas again until the surface is completely smooth.
Equipment Needed for Sanding Wooden Cases
1. Random Orbit Sander
A random orbit sander is the best choice for sanding wooden cases as it provides a smooth and even finish without leaving visible swirl marks. Look for a sander with variable speed settings to allow for greater control over the sanding process.
2. Sandpaper Discs
Sandpaper discs are used to sand the surfaces of the wooden cases. Begin with an 80-grit sandpaper disc and gradually move up to a 120-grit sandpaper disc.
3. Shop Vacuum
To minimize the amount of sawdust in the air during sanding, it is important to use a shop vacuum to collect sawdust as you work. A small shop vacuum with a hose can be easily attached to a random orbit sander.
4. Dust Mask
A dust mask should be worn during all sanding activities to prevent inhalation of sawdust and other airborne particles.
Conclusion
Sanding wooden cases is an important step in achieving a smooth and polished finished product. By following these steps and tips, and using the right equipment, you can ensure a successful result that will look great and stand the test of time. Always remember to take care and work in a well-ventilated area with all the necessary protective gear.
Posted by Tim Metcalf on 2011-03-31 20:23:40