I recently came across these [relatively] new 3M Pro Grade Precision sanding sponges, which feature a channelled surface to help keep dust away from the sanding surface.
Sanding sponges have more “give” than sanding blocks, and allow you to sand along curves and uneven shapes. They conform a lot better than sandpaper, which can crease, crack, or perform poorly. Sandpaper works well on flatter surfaces, sanding sponges work better on other types of surfaces.
I was quite interested in the design, and I certainly would have bought a few, if not for my very infrequent use of sanding sponges.
You don’t want dust to be caught in between your sanding sponge and your work material. At the least, they get in the way of the abrasive action, reducing sanding performance.
There are 4 sides:
- Patterned side
- Regular side
- 2 Straight edges
3M recommends that the patterned side be used for detail and contour sanding, and the regular side for flat sanding.
Additional Features
- Lasts 5X longer than 3M sanding sheets
- Ultra Flexible sponge material
- Made with premium aluminum oxide abrasive material
- Washable
- Reusable
- Clog-resistant
- Can be used wet or dry
- For use on interior or exterior surfaces
Each sanding pad measures 4.5″ x 2.5″ x 1″.
Sizes: Coarse 60 Grit | Medium 80 Grit | Fine 120 Grit | X-Fine 180 Grit | X-Fine 220 Grit
There is also a slightly larger size 4-7/8″ x 2-7/8″ x 1″, shown at the very top of the post, which also has an angled edge.
Price: ~$5 each
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Buy Now(Single Angle Larger Pad via Home Depot)
First Thoughts
With the final proofread of this post, I’ve convinced myself to buy a couple of these sanding sponges in 120 grit, 180 grit, and 220 grit sizes. Maybe 80 grit as well.
I have a couple of big sanding projects coming up, and while I plan to use a power sander, maybe there will be some corners or thin edges I’d like to tackle with a little more control. I’ve been meaning to dig out my sanding block, but a few sanding sponges should do just as well.
3M’s SandBlaster sanding sponges are a little less expensive, except for some patterned ones I’ve found. These Pro Grade Precision sanding sponges look to be a progression of that style, with greater channel widths between the pointed oval-shaped flats.
What are your thoughts – would these sanding pads help your sanding and finishing applications in any way?