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Although both items are labeled as 220-grit, the pads are softer with a less aggressive scratch pattern.

With use, a 220-grit pad will soften very quickly to the equivalent of 400-grit sandpaper - making used pads ideal for finish sanding between layers of topcoat or prep sanding an EXISTING finish.

220-grit sandpaper is too aggressive for finish sanding but works well for the final round of prep sanding of open-grained raw wood such as Cherry, Pine, Maple, Birch, or Alder.

Finish sanding is the process of sanding between or before the final coats of topcoat. There are several options.

Be careful about just using numbers. For instance, the 220 grit sanding PAD is equivalent to 400 grit SANDPAPER. Sanding pads from different brands have similar names but different grits. Also a note on sanding pads - we like to abrade new ones a bit on raw wood and not use them straight out of the box. Used 220 sanding pads are perfect for that final sand before topcoat.

Yes. Cedar naturally contains oil, which prevents a finish from polymerizing (cross-linking or attaching together), slowing down the dry time.

Wiping with mineral spirits prior to application will help. Increase dry times as well. Regarding prep-sanding Cedar for a finish, sand to 180-220 because it is extremely soft wood.

The most critical part of finishing a piece of furniture happens before you open a can of stain or paint - it starts with the sanding. Sanding is critical to creating a smooth surface. Use the following sanding sequences for new wood:

PAINT

For wood that is going to be painted, use 120-grit, followed by 150-grit.

If you want to change the sheen, you can re-coat with a different sheen over top. The second layer of top coat will replace the appearance of the first.

Sand lightly with a used 220 sanding PAD to knock down the original finish before re-coating. It may take two or 3 coats to get complete coverage.

You can use oxalic acid when trying to remove discoloration or water damaged spots. The entire surface needs to be treated and then neutralized with a clean water wash.

Mix 4 oz. per quart of warm water. Wipe the entire surface down with the mixture and allow to dry completely. Rinse table with a clean damp rag. Finish sand with 180 grit followed by the final sanding schedule below. Make sure to wear a  dust mask when sanding wood treated with oxalic acid - the dust can irate the nose.