Sandpaper Films: Gypsum Surface Treatment

In the realm of art creation and crafting, plaster is a common material. Not only can it be shaped into various complex forms, but it also exhibits a delicate texture through fine sanding. Today, we will discuss how to use sandpaper film to sand plaster, making your work even more perfect.

Understanding the Basics of Plaster Sanding

Before we start sanding, we need to understand some basic knowledge about plaster sanding. Plaster materials are generally categorized into high-density plaster and regular plaster, each with different hardness and sanding requirements.

• Regular Plaster: Due to its relatively low hardness, it is usually recommended to use medium or fine sandpaper films for sanding. For the initial sanding, use sandpaper films with a grit of 120 to 180. Subsequently, use sandpaper films with a grit of 240 to 320 for intermediate sanding, and finally, use fine sandpaper films with a grit of above 400 for finishing.

• High-Density Plaster: Due to its higher hardness, it requires coarser sandpaper films for preliminary sanding. You can start with sandpaper films with a grit of 80 or 100, then use sandpaper films with a grit of 180 to 240 for intermediate sanding, and finally, use fine sandpaper films with a grit of above 320 for polishing.

Selecting the Right Sandpaper Films

The grit of the sandpaper films determines the fineness of the sanding. The higher the grit, the finer the sandpaper films, and the smoother the surface after sanding. Here are suitable scenarios for different grits of sandpaper films:

• Coarse Sandpaper Films (40-60 grit): Suitable for preliminary sanding of plaster to remove larger irregularities.

• Medium Sandpaper Films (120-180 grit): Used to remove marks left by coarse sandpaper film and make the surface smoother.

• Fine Sandpaper Films(240-400 grit): Used for fine sanding, suitable for handling details, making the surface close to a mirror effect.

• Ultra-Fine Sandpaper Films (600 grit and above): Used for final polishing, making the plaster surface smooth as a mirror.

Sanding Techniques

Selection of Initial Sandpaper Grit

For plaster surfaces that are not too rough, it is recommended to start sanding with 240 grit sandpaper films.

Gradual Refinement

Gradually increase the grit of the sandpaper films, sanding from coarse to fine. This ensures the smoothness of the plaster surface and avoids scratches.

Choosing the Right Grit

The grit of the sandpaper films should be selected based on the condition of the plaster surface and the desired effect. Avoid using sandpaper films that is too coarse or too fine to prevent damage to the plaster or leaving marks.

Wet Sanding

Before sanding, you can slightly wet the plaster surface. This reduces dust and makes the plaster surface softer, facilitating sanding.

Gradual Increase

Start with low grit sandpaper films and gradually increase to higher grit. This ensures that high-grit sandpaper film can remove scratches left by low-grit sandpaper film.

Even Pressure

Maintain even pressure during the sanding process to avoid excessive wear in specific areas.