Answer
For oak before staining, sand dry through 120, 180, and 220. Clean dust from the open grain before stain.
Why it happens
Open-grain wood still needs a clean, even scratch pattern before stain. Stopping too coarse can show marks; sanding too fine can reduce stain penetration.
Recommended grit
Use 120 if leveling is needed, then 180 and 220 before staining.
Wet or dry
Dry.
Success check
The oak has an even scratch pattern and no visible cross-grain sanding marks.
What to do
- Sand with the grain using 120 only if the oak needs leveling.
- Refine with 180.
- Finish with 220 before stain.
- Remove dust from the open grain before applying stain.
Avoid: Do not jump from coarse sanding directly to stain.