by Sanding Block: An Essential Sanding Tool For Woodworking Projects
Types of Sanding hinders
There are different types of Sanding hinders available in the market depending on the material used and shape. Some common types are:
Foam Sanding hinders: These are lightweight Sanding hinders made of durable foam material. Foam Sanding hinders come in different densities and are very comfortable to hold for extended sanding sessions. They are inexpensive and easily available. However, foam can break down over time with heavy sanding.
Wood Sanding hinders: Traditionally, wood has been used to make sturdy Sanding hinders. Wood Sanding hinders are more durable than foam but can be heavier. Popular wood types used are maple, walnut, etc. Wood blocks need occasional oiling to prevent cracks.
Plastic Sanding hinders: Plastic is a man-made material gaining popularity for making Sanding hinders. Plastic blocks are lightweight, compact and durable. They are inexpensive but may feel less comfortable in hands compared to foam or wood.
Rubber Sanding hinders: Rubber Sanding hinders provide a soft, comfortable grip. They are more durable than foam and absorb vibrations better. However, rubber blocks can leave residues on sanded surfaces.
Shapes of Sanding Blocks
In addition to the material, Sanding hinders come in different shapes and sizes suited for various sanding tasks:
Rectangular: The classic rectangular shape is a versatile Sanding hinder suitable for flat surfaces. They are available in standard and mini sizes.
Tapered: Tapered blocks have a wedge shape tapering from thick to thin. They are useful for getting into concave areas and corners during woodworking projects.
Disc: Circular disc shaped Sanding hinders are convenient for rounded surfaces like table legs, chair spindles, moldings etc.
Orbital: Orbital Sanding hinders have a round shape and orbital sandpaper attached to slowly rotate back and forth during sanding. They result in a very smooth finish.
Specialty: There are Sanding hinders designed specifically for sanding curved surfaces like chair seats, arches etc. Shapes may include half-moon, triangular etc.
Sandpaper for Sanding hinders
Choosing the right sandpaper is crucial for sanding with blocks. Here are some important sandpaper types:
Wet/dry sandpaper: Suitable for both dry and wet sanding on wood. Wet sanding helps reduce scratch marks. Grit ranges from 80-400.
Aluminum oxide paper: An affordable abrasive paper which lasts long. Offers an even cut. Used dry. Grit range 60-320.
Zirconia alumina paper: A high-quality long-lasting paper that cuts very smoothly. Best for hardwoods. Used dry in range 80-400 grit.
Backing pads: Foam or polymeric backings ideal for Sanding hinders. Give a controllable cut. Grits 60-600 available.
Sanding with a Block
To get professional results, it is important to use Sanding hinders correctly:
– Secure sandpaper tightly with no air bubbles. Lightly wet if wet sanding.
– Hold block firmly applying gentle pressure. Maintain flat contact and check edges.
– Sand in multiple directions- with and across grain. Rotate block often to prevent rounding edges.
– Progress through finer grits evenly to avoid skips. 80, 150, 220, 320 grit sequence generally works well.
– Remove dust frequently. Wipe with tack cloth between coats for a smooth surface ready for finishing.
Applications of Sanding Hinder
Some common woodworking applications where Sanding hinders are indispensable include:
Finishing surfaces: Sanding hinders level out any imperfections to create a smooth, seamless surface ready for stains and polyurethane. They are especially useful for tabletops, cabinets, furniture etc.
Flattening: For complete flattening of surfaces, Sanding hinders help make surfaces parallel that would otherwise be challenging with just sandpaper.
Edge banding: Helps produce flawlessly smooth edges after iron-on edging is applied on raw wood surfaces like MDF boards.
Reshaping: For reshaping wood pieces like chair legs back into perfect cylinders or restoring damaged edges of moldings, a Sanding hinder does accurate work.
Sanding in intersections: Reaching tight corners, along beveled edges or inside intricate designs is possible using a Sanding hinder unlike sandpaper alone.
Benefits of Using a Sanding hinder
Some key benefits of smoothening wood surfaces with Sanding hinders include:
– Precise and consistent sanding without rounding edges or leaving swirl marks.
– Protects hands from direct contact with abrasives avoiding skin irritation.
– Allows controlled application of pressure for an even cut.
– Reaches tight spaces hand sanding cannot access.
– Extends sandpaper life as it does not fold, bunch up or wear unevenly.
– Gives professional, flawless finish ready for staining, painting or finishing.
In conclusion, a sanding block is an indispensable woodworking tool that helps expert craftsmen as well as DIY woodworkers perfectly prepare all types of surfaces including flat boards, edges, contours and intricate profiles for the next step of wood finishing. With the right choice of material, shape and sandpaper, it helps deliver superior sanded surfaces efficiently.
