Question about sanding between coats on a walnut table

I keep seeing people skip the light sanding step between polyurethane coats, then wonder why their finish feels rough. On a recent walnut table project, I did a quick pass with 400 grit after the first coat dried and the final surface was glass smooth. Anyone else notice this is the make or break step for a pro feel?

3 comments

3 Comments

hannahhayes10d ago

Actually, that extra sanding is a total waste of time. Modern polyurethane levels itself so well that you're just creating more dust to clean up. I've gotten perfect results just by applying thin, even coats.

christopher40210d ago

Saw a woodworking article in Fine Woodworking last month that disagreed. They tested several modern polys. The test showed a quick sand with fine paper between coats cuts down on tiny bumps called nibs. It's not about leveling, it's about adhesion and a totally smooth feel. Their finish experts said skipping that step is the main reason people get a less than perfect result.

abby3083d ago

Well, @christopher402, I guess the "perfect result" police are writing articles now.