How do you get into the tight spaces to sand

[cjones]

I have this project I created and am having problems getting into the tight, close areas to sand. I have tried the 3M Bristol pads but they ware out so quickly it is hard to get much done before I have to change them. Any ideas? Also, I am uploading the 2 .MPC files for this project should anyone want it. It came from a one of those site where you can download a picture to color in.

Chris

[boilermaker]

I use these
https://youtu.be/htkUKEE6bBg

[Sliverfoot]

I start out with a sanding mop and then do more detailed sanding with the small dremel sanding wheels like these. I have used the 220 and 180 grits.

[cjones]

Where do you get the Dremel sanding wheels? I am looking online and finding a wide range of costs.

[brdad]

You can get the jeweler's type abrasive brushes cheaper than the dremels, you have to deal with a mandrel but you can also stack several on if you like. Some of the sets you get finer grits than you might want, but still cheaper overall.
https://www.amazon.com/3M-RADIAL-BRISTLE-BRUSH-ASSORTMENT/dp/B00VZ3DW2E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1513021210&sr=8-1&keywords=radial+bristle+disc+set

[DickB]

For flat carved surfaces such as your project (or behind raised lettering) I use one of these Proxxon pen sanders: https://www.proxxon.com/us/micromot/28594.php
It requires a 12v power supply, but you don't have to use the Proxxon one which is a bit spendy. A 12vdc 1A wall wart will work fine. Some complain that the sandpaper wears out quickly, which it does because the area is so small. If you're willing to cut your own any adhesive-backed sandpaper will work.

For fine detail I find that these Lumberton sanding sticks work well: https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/metal-prep-coloring/abrasives/abrasive-rolls-mandrels/standard-sanding-detailer-kit-course-grits-sku511000001-59842-125461.aspx?cm_mmc=cse-_-Itwine-_-shopzilla-_-511-000-001&utm_medium=cse&utm_source=connexity&utm_campaign=itwine&utm_content=511-000-001

Also, simply folding small pieces of sandpaper over a couple of times allows getting into the small spaces. No, it's not easy, but I don't think there are always easy ways. I've had less luck with sanding mops myself. They can remove some of the fuzzies, but for me don't smooth very well without ruining the detail.

[Sliverfoot]

I get mine at the local Menards

[myshop1044]

I use these from Dremell, they are sanding stones for metal but work great on wood for edge work and cleaning up slots

[DickB]

I use these from Dremell, they are sanding stones for metal but work great on wood for edge work and cleaning up slotsDremel also has a small sanding drum that is good for edges such as the edges of raised letters.

[myshop1044]

yes I use them too.

[MRcarvey]

The Proxxon looks like an interesting detail sander. When you attached the wall wart how did you know how to connect it to the sander to get the polarity right. Are the pins on the sander labeled + and - ?

[jgowrie]

I use these
https://youtu.be/htkUKEE6bBg


Is that YOUR video and YOU make them or you buy them from the person that makes them.. There isn't much info on that video and that looks like a pretty useful item for the old tool chest ;)

[CarverJerry]

This is one of the things I use a lot besides home made sanding mops for my dremel. You can get the replacement belt in different grits. I believe I got some from Amazon, it's listed under sanding detailer.

[DickB]

The Proxxon looks like an interesting detail sander. When you attached the wall wart how did you know how to connect it to the sander to get the polarity right. Are the pins on the sander labeled + and - ?Turns out the polarity doesn't matter.

[CarverJerry]

Dick, that pen sander looks really cool. Think I'll get one and give it a try. Thanks for posting that.

[fwharris]

These are also very handy..

[DickB]

These are also very handy..Where do you get them?

[bergerud]

One place for example: https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&initiative_id=AS_20171213082157&SearchText=rotary+diamond+burrs

[fwharris]

Where do you get them?

My first set was from WoodCraft but Harbor Freight also has them.

[cjones]

Thanks everyone for your advice. I am looking at a few of the options listed. This project is more for Easter but wanted to get it ready for a show this weekend. Unfortunately, I will not have all I ned to finish until after the show. I will just make sure to have it ready for spring shows. Texas Wood Carvers have the Lumberton micro sanders and they are only about 17 miles from my shop. They are a few dollars more but would be worth it to get them quicker by just driving to their location. Also, my wife bought a micro carver that have several of the bits Floyd mentioned. I might give them a try as well.

Thanks again,

Chris