Sanding mop grit

[Porter]

On this site, they say that 120 grit is better for hardwood, while 220 grit is better for softwood. Why would that be?

[Max]

I believe they say that because 120 grit is more aggressive and will sand through soft wood, like pine, much faster than 220 grit. I guess if you need to take more wood off of soft wood, you can get away with 120. I think it's mostly a preference but it's always fun to experiment.

Happy sanding!!

[sawdustus]

Porter, I use the 120 grit for hardwoods and thick pieces and the 180 grit for delicate pieces or softwoods. By experimenting, I found that the slowest drill press speed is best and that I should just barely be touching the mop with the piece being sanded. Too much pressure and the piece tends to develop migration tendencies and/or break. Either grit will give you a gently rounded edge on all frets and borders depending on how long you keep the piece in contact with the mop. Hope this helps.

george

[Janette]

even 220 is too aggressive for pine if you push it hard. For intarsia, I use their 180 and am gentle with the softer woods. eventually the 180 will become 220 through wear. I've started on a 120 now - which is about what the 180 used to be.

[handibunny]

I came the statement that the higher grits on hardwood can burnish the wood, which may or may not be desirable. I find the 320 grit great for smoothing the first coat on a shellac finish, a use that I'd never thought of, and one which saves wear and tear on my shoulder. Also, I never use the mop on laminations using wood of different densities, since the softer wood tends to sand away faster.

Carole