Refinishing a car takes more than just paint—it starts with proper prep. Using the right sandpaper at each stage ensures a smooth, professional finish. Here’s a quick guide to what grit to use and why.
36–80 Grit: Heavy Stripping
Use: Removing paint, rust, and shaping body filler
Why it matters: Cuts fast but leaves deep scratches—ideal for the early stages of bodywork.
120–180 Grit: Feather-Edging & Shaping
Use: Smoothing filler and blending edges
Why it matters: Helps transition from rough sanding to finer prep; essential for clean repairs.
220–320 Grit: Prepping for Primer
Use: Final sanding before primer
Why it matters: Creates the right surface texture for primer adhesion without scratching too deep.
400–600 Grit: Smoothing Primer
Use: Wet or dry sanding primer before base coat
Why it matters: Flattens primer and ensures an even surface for paint.
800–1500 Grit: Clear Coat Prep & Paint Correction
Use: Blending base coat, fixing runs, nibs, or imperfections
Why it matters: Fine sanding without damaging underlying layers—used wet for best results.
2000+ Grit: Finishing Touch
Use: Smoothing clear coat before polishing
Why it matters: Removes tiny flaws and preps for that final high-gloss buff.
Pro Tip: Use sanding blocks or DA sanders for even pressure, and wet sand when possible to reduce clogging and dust.
Every grit has a job. Using them in the right order gives you better paint adhesion, smoother finishes, and fewer headaches. Prep smart—and the results will speak for themselves.
Visit one of our 60 locations to find your needed sandpaper materials: https://gocolours.com/our-locations/