Answer
Between coats of joint compound, use 180 or 220 lightly. For final smoothing, use 220 or 320.
Why it happens
High spots and ridges need light leveling, not aggressive sanding, between coats.
Recommended grit
Use 180 or 220 lightly between coats. Use 220 or 320 for final smoothing.
Wet or dry
Dry.
Success check
Ridges are leveled and the patch is ready for the next coat.
What to do
- Let the joint compound dry completely.
- Knock down ridges lightly with 180 or 220.
- Avoid digging into the patch.
- Remove dust before the next coat.
Avoid: Do not over-sand into drywall paper.