How can I smooth out the textured finish on my painted doors using sanding techniques and what grit should I use for optimal results?
Asked by آریا سلطانی نژاد 
4 months ago
Last Updated: July 26, 2024
Hey everyone! I just finished painting some doors using cabinet paint and a small roller, but the finish came out more textured than I wanted (couldn’t use a spray system). Would it be okay to sand it down a bit? If so, what grit would you recommend? And any tips for making sure it’s uniform? Thanks for any advice!
Which paint did you end up using? Cheaper brands won’t provide as smooth of a finish as the higher quality paints.
Start by sanding it down, but don’t go above a 150 grit if the surface is quite rough.
Be careful not to over-sand, just aim for a smooth touch. Grab a foam roller cover designed for doors and cabinets. Apply the paint evenly, not too thick, and avoid back-rolling.
It won’t be the same as a spray finish, but with good paint and technique, you can still achieve a nice look.
Mentioned that they applied a Benjamin Moore paint specifically made for cabinets.
I used a 3/16″ microfiber roller and it came out really nice. If you want a super smooth finish, try wet sanding what you’ve painted. Make sure to let the paint cure for 7-10 days, as it will flatten out as it dries. Just be careful not to go over paint that has already started to dry.
Hey , I used a 3/16 but now I’m thinking I might have applied a second coat too soon. I’ve never tried wet sanding before, but I have a project planned for my son’s room that I was thinking of wet sanding to minimize dust. Looks like I need to do some reading up on it!
Do I really have to dry sand first?
Hey , you have the option to dry sand first, but personally, I’ve seen better results wet sanding fresh latex paint.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, !
Quick tip: Use tape to wrap up your roller sleeve. Remove it carefully to avoid any lint or fuzz.
Hey Joe ohue, I’m a bit confused. Mind elaborating?
Feel free to sand as needed. Using a foam roller will help you achieve a smooth finish. It’s best to apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat.