Orbital Sander Vs. Hand Sanding

[Schmitty]

Does anyone use an orbital sander or do most people do everything by hand? 

Also what does everyone recommend for maple finishing as far as sandpaper grit?
For:
Wood Prep
Sanding Between dye
Sanding clear coats

If anyone has a finishing schedule they could provide for a standard curly maple top with a dyed burst finish I would really appreciate it.

 

[dmraco]

I always sand by hand.  Polish with an orbital.

for wood prep 220
between dye...220 then 400 if needed.
Clear coats depend on how good the finish is.  800-1000 is a good starting point.
this works well...all the way up to 12000 grit.
http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2080765/29707/MicroMesh-3-x-4-Soft-Touch-Pads.aspx

 

[Schmitty]

I always sand by hand.  Polish with an orbital.

for wood prep 220
between dye...220 then 400 if needed.
Clear coats depend on how good the finish is.  800-1000 is a good starting point.
this works well...all the way up to 12000 grit.
http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2080765/29707/MicroMesh-3-x-4-Soft-Touch-Pads.aspx

Thank you. That is what I was thinking but I've watched a few videos on YouTube where the people are using orbitals...I was surprised

 

[Cagey]

I always sand by hand. Power tools will tear through the finish much too fast, particularly on any kind of edge or transition. It's good idea to have a hard rubber block for the flat areas, and some shaped ones for some contours, but you shouldn't need much more assistance than that. Dura-Block has some nice pieces...

That set should cover just about anything you'd do.

Also, I rarely use anything rougher than a 320 grit unless I'm dealing with raw or rough-cut parts.

 

[AutoBat]

I don't often sand, but when I do I use a chainsaw tractor.

I own one small sanding block (and no chainsaw).

 

[AtoZGuitars]

Orbital sanders are nice but only if you are comfortable and know how to use one.  The problem with orbital sanders is a lot of people angle them without realizing it and you work against yourself creating waves.  You have to keep it flat or you aren't doing any good.  Especially after clear coat (you will be really sorry if you tear through the clear coat right after you finish).  The durablocks are nice and you have a lot more control and can take your time.