Poor Results Between Coats
Sanding between paint, primer, sealer, or clear coats leaves visible problems.
Grit is too coarse between coats
The sanding scratches between coats are too visible. Recommended grit: Use 400 for primer, 600 for paint or finish coats, and 800 or finer near the final coat.
Cutting through finish between coats
Sanding between coats removes too much finish or cuts through the coating. Recommended grit: Use 400 for stronger primer or paint leveling. Use 600, 800, or finer for thin coats and final smoothing.
Primer scratches show through paint
Sanding scratches in primer are still visible after paint. Recommended grit: Use 320 for primer leveling, 400 for normal paint prep, and 600 for finer prep before topcoat.
What grit to use for paint prep
It is unclear which grit to use before painting. Recommended grit: Use 220–320 for prep and leveling, 400 before paint, and 600 for finer final prep when needed.