Finish Looks Uneven
The surface has uneven dull spots, patchy sanding marks, or inconsistent texture.
Uneven finish from sanding pressure
The surface looks uneven after sanding. Recommended grit: Return to the grit that levels the uneven area, then step finer again.
Hand sanding leaves finger grooves
Hand sanding leaves grooves or uneven pressure marks. Recommended grit: Use 180 or 220 to level light grooves, then refine with 320 and 400. Use 120 only for deeper grooves.
Finish looks patchy after changing grit
The finish looks patchy or uneven after switching grits. Recommended grit: Return to the last grit that leveled the surface, then move forward one step at a time, such as 180, 220, 320, and 400.
Wet sanding haze is uneven
Wet sanding leaves a haze that is uneven across the surface. Recommended grit: Use the current grit until the pattern is even, then refine through 1500, 2000, and 3000 when preparing for polish.