Sanding Down 'High Spots'

Workshop Tip No. 4

When you need to sand down a 'high spot' it is sometimes possible to apply masking tape to either side of the 'high spot'. The masking tape will allow the sanding block to pass over the taped area but sand down the 'high spot'. If you sand through the tape before you have finished then remove the tape and apply a new piece.

This method can also be used if you are reinforcing the centre section of a polystyrene and wood veneer covered wing with either epoxy or polyester resin and glass cloth. Apply the masking tape to either side of the finished glassed area then sand it down. The tape will protect the surface, if you sand  through the tape remove it and apply a new piece. The last thing you want to do is sand down the thin wood veneer as it will greatly reduce the strength of the wing around that area of the centre section. The main reason for glassing the centre section in the first place is to reinforce this high stressed area, this will be greatly impaired if you sand down the wood veneer to either side.