How to Sand Primer on a Pinewood Derby Car

Primer can be used as a base coat of paint for a sharp-looking pinewood derby car. Spray primer works best, as it is quick and easy for younger scouts to apply. Sanding the primer after it is dry will remove any thick glops of paint that can result from overenthusiastic young painters and can help achieve a satin smooth paint job. Using primer will reduce the number of coats of regular paint the pinewood derby car will need because it seals the wood and helps fill any flaws or cracks in the pine block.

Things You'll Need

• Extra fine steel wool
• Lint-free cloth
• Newspaper or plastic

Instructions

1. Cover the work area with newspaper or a plastic sheet to collect wood dust from sanding.

2. Lightly sand the pinewood derby car with extra fine steel wool, using long, steady strokes. Work on smoothing out lumps in the primer or any other imperfections in the paint job. Try to get as smooth a surface as possible.

3. Wipe the pinewood derby car with a lint-free cloth to remove dust and prepare the car for its finish coat of paint.

References

• Pinewood Derby Speed Secrets; David Meade; 2006
• Utah State University Cooperative Extension on Finishing: Information on Sanding