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Problem

What grit between enamel paint coats?

Enamel paint can show dust nibs or poor adhesion between coats if the surface is not lightly scuffed.

paint wet sanding dry sanding between coats
Answer

Between enamel paint coats, use 400 or 600 lightly after the previous coat has cured.

Why it happens
Fully cured enamel is smoother and harder, so the next coat may need light sanding for tooth.
Recommended grit
Use 400 or 600 lightly between cured enamel coats.
Wet or dry
Dry for normal scuff sanding; wet only when the paint instructions allow it.
Success check
The surface is smooth, clean, and lightly dulled before recoating.

What to do

  1. Let the enamel cure as directed.
  2. Scuff lightly with 400 or 600.
  3. Remove all dust.
  4. Apply the next coat over a clean dull surface.
Avoid: Do not sand enamel while it is still soft or tacky.

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