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Problem

What grit for wood shelves before staining?

Wood shelves can show scratches or blotchy stain after finishing.

wood dry sanding polishing prep scratches
Answer

For wood shelves before staining, use 120 on rough boards, then 180 and 220.

Why it happens
Shelves need even sanding and dust removal before stain so the surface absorbs consistently.
Recommended grit
Use 120 on rough boards, then 180 and 220 before stain.
Wet or dry
Dry.
Success check
The shelf feels smooth and accepts stain evenly.

What to do

  1. Sand rough boards with 120.
  2. Refine with 180.
  3. Finish with 220 before stain.
  4. Remove dust from edges and corners.
Avoid: Do not stain over visible scratch lines or dust.

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