All raw wood projects require preparation sanding before applying stain or wood conditioners. If you skip this critical step, your finish may be rough and uneven.
Preparation for Raw Wood
See our video: How to Prep Sand Raw Wood
- Sand open grain wood with 120-grit sandpaper followed by 150-grit, then 180 grit. Sand closed grain wood with no finer than 180 grit sandpaper.
- Remove dust with a vacuum, compressed air, a tack cloth or a water-dampened rag.
- Do not over-sand with fine-grit sandpapers; this will close and seal the wood grain, preventing ideal product absorption.