Answer
For a handrail before varnish, sand with 150, 180, and 220. Use 320 lightly between cured coats.
Why it happens
Handrails are touched often, so sanding needs to remove roughness and visible scratch marks before finish.
Recommended grit
Use 150, 180, then 220 before varnish. Use 320 lightly between cured coats.
Wet or dry
Dry.
Success check
The handrail feels smooth and has no visible sanding lines.
What to do
- Sand rough areas with 150.
- Refine with 180 and 220.
- Remove dust before varnish.
- Use 320 lightly between cured coats.
Avoid: Do not varnish over coarse scratch marks.