Tool Review: 3M Ultra Flexible Sanding Sheets
Ben Brunick takes a look at these contortionist sanding sheetsRubbery and somewhat translucent, 3M Ultra Flexible Sanding Sheets excel at conforming to just about any profile. Available in grits of 100, 150, 220, and 320, it’s the only sanding sheet I’ve ever used that actually stretches, refusing to tear. It can be crumpled as tight as you want during use and then it returns to its original flat state.
Although this flexibility is its main attraction, the sandpaper also shines when used with a sanding block, where it refuses to tear when easing sharp corners and edges. That, along with its non-clogging characteristics, means it needs to be changed only when its grit finally gives up the ghost.
These assets can at times be liabilities. Because it doesn’t hold a crease, it tends to roll when sanding without a backer. Also, its rubbery backing can overheat if pushed too hard during high-speed sanding sessions at the lathe. It has certainly earned a spot on my shelf.
—Ben Brunick is a woodworker in Yankton, S.D.
Comments
Absolutely essential when refinishing staircase handrail.
Another plus is you can wash them to get the built up grit off the `paper`. So if there`s a bit of glue, resin etc on the sanding sheet, gently wash it with a soft bristle brush and dish soap. After drying, they are ready to go.
What happened to them? They are getting hard to find so does that mean 3M stopped making this amazing product? That would just be crazy. There is no replacement or substitute for this amazing abrasive media.
I assume that they stopped making this. I have been searching high and low. 3M’s site doesn’t list it, even. This is the best sandpaper I’ve ever used.
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