How to Use Wet Sand Paper

Wet sandpaper can be used in a variety of applications.

Wet sandpaper is used to flatten the surface of your freshly painted car. It can be used to remove runs and to clear imperfections in the paint. Wet sandpaper is very smooth and has a high grit number. Wet-sanding your car can be done yourself at home. It should be done after 24 hours and within a couple of days after the paint was applied.

Things You'll Need

• Wet sandpaper in various grits
• sanding block
• Bucket
• Water
• Wiping cloth

Instructions

1. Fill a bucket with lukewarm water. Prepare the surface of the vehicle by wiping all dust and debris off the painted surface with a wiping cloth.

2. Wet another wiping cloth with water and wipe down the vehicle. Use plenty of water during this stage.

3. Sand the vehicle with the lowest-grit wet sandpaper first to remove larger imperfections in the paint. 1000 grit is the most coarse wet sandpaper you should use. Wrap the sandpaper around a sanding block.

4. Sand small sections of the vehicle at a time. Apply light pressure to the sanding block while sanding in a horizontal fashion. Be sure to keep the sandpaper wet by dipping it into the water bucket. Avoid any debris on the surface, as it may scratch the paint.

5. Continue sanding the entire surface in small sections.

6. Repeat the sanding process with 2500 grit wet sandpaper until a glossy finish is established.

Tips & Warnings

• After you finish wet-sanding, you may apply a polish or wax.

References

• Body Shop Zone
• Purchase Wet Sandpaper