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Follow the Grain

Does sanding direction change the scratches you can see?

Set up the comparison

Use two marked areas of the same prepared board. Sand one with the grain and one across it with the same grit and number of light strokes.

With grainsame grit · same strokes
Across grainsame grit · same strokes
The arrows show stroke direction. Your sample supplies the scratch result.

What you need

  • One prepared board with two marked areas
  • One sanding block and the same grit for both areas
  • Side light and a way to record what you see

What to do

  1. Find the grain direction and mark two equal areas.
  2. Sand one area with the grain and one across it using the same grit and stroke count.
  3. Brush away dust with adult help. Look across both areas under side light.
  4. Record which scratches remain. If you try a finer grit, use it on both areas.

What should you look for?

Hold the board under side light. Which area has lines that cross the grain?

How could this help your build?

You can choose a sanding direction and check the surface before finishing a project.