A wide range of DIY abrasive tools and equipment are available. These abrasives are used to prepare, shape and finish materials. The abrasive is rubbed over the surface either by hand or using a power tool and this action wears away the surface to produce the required result. Obvious examples include smoothing wood ready for painting and removal of rust from metals.
Selecting the appropriate abrasive materials and equipment for the job is essential to achieve the best results. Many abrasives are available in a range of grades from coarse through to smooth. For most preparation and shaping work, start with a coarse abrasive then finish with a finer grade. This will be more efficient and will produce better results.