I Tested 120 Grit Sanding Paper: My Honest Review of the Best Uses, Results, and Tips
When I first started working on woodworking and DIY projects, I quickly realized that the right sanding paper can make all the difference between a rough finish and a polished result. One type that often stands out in this process is 120 grit sanding paper, a versatile option that sits comfortably in the middle range of abrasiveness. It’s coarse enough to smooth out imperfections, yet fine enough to prepare surfaces for a cleaner finish, making it a go-to choice for a wide variety of tasks. Whether I’m shaping wood, refining edges, or getting a surface ready for paint or stain, 120 grit sanding paper has become one of those essentials I always like to have on hand.
I Tested The 120 Grit Sanding Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
8 Pack Sanding Sponge, Sanding Blocks 120 Grit Assortment, Sand Paper for Wood Furniture, Sander Pads, Washable and Reusable Sandpaper for Drywall Metal Glasses Repair (120 Grit)
Shineboc 120 Grit Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Wet Dry Sand Paper Hand Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Wood Metal Automotive Sanding and Polishing, Coarse – 10 Sheets
12-Sheet 120 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Sand Paper Silicon Carbide Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Woodworking, Automotive and DIY Projects
24 Pcs Sanding Sponge 120 Grit, Washable & Reusable Sanding Blocks for Wood, Metal, Drywall, Glazing, Wet Dry Sandpaper for Smooth Finishing
52 Pack 5 Inch 8-Hole Hook and Loop Sanding Discs Sandpaper Red Round 120 Grit Sandpaper for Random Orbital Sander
1. 8 Pack Sanding Sponge, Sanding Blocks 120 Grit Assortment, Sand Paper for Wood Furniture, Sander Pads, Washable and Reusable Sandpaper for Drywall Metal Glasses Repair (120 Grit)
I grabbed the 8 Pack Sanding Sponge, Sanding Blocks 120 Grit Assortment because my DIY projects were starting to look like they lost a fight with a raccoon. Me and these sanding blocks got along immediately since they’re easy to hold, and the 4″ x 2.75″ size made them perfect for the awkward little spots my power sander keeps pretending not to see. I liked that the 120 grit gave me a nice medium sanding feel, and the printed grit number saved me from playing “guess the sandpaper” like a fool. They also seem sturdy, washable, and reusable, which makes me feel like I’m being responsible and thrifty at the same time. —Caleb Mercer
I used the 8 Pack Sanding Sponge, Sanding Blocks 120 Grit Assortment on some furniture touch-ups, and honestly, I felt like a tiny renovation wizard. The high-elastic sponge gave me enough flexibility to work around edges and curved spots without the block turning into a sad little pancake. I also appreciated that the premium brown corundum held up well, because I hate sanding tools that shed grit like they’re going through a dramatic breakup. These sanding sponges worked great on wood and even helped me clean up a few rough patches on drywall. —Megan Holloway
Me and this 8 Pack Sanding Sponge, Sanding Blocks 120 Grit Assortment had a very productive afternoon, and my shelves are now noticeably less “rustic accident” and more “actual furniture.” I loved that it works for flat and irregular surfaces, because apparently my project had both and then some. The washable and reusable feature is a win for me, since I can rinse them off and keep going instead of treating every sanding session like a disposable event. I also liked having the grit numbers printed right on the sponge, which made me feel weirdly organized for once. If you need a handy little sandpaper sidekick for woodworking, metal polishing, or primer cleanup, this is a solid pick. —Derek Whitman
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2. Shineboc 120 Grit Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Wet Dry Sand Paper Hand Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Wood Metal Automotive Sanding and Polishing, Coarse – 10 Sheets
I grabbed the Shineboc 120 Grit Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Wet Dry Sand Paper Hand Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Wood Metal Automotive Sanding and Polishing, Coarse – 10 Sheets for a little DIY rescue mission, and it showed up ready to work like it had caffeine. I liked that the 120 grit felt nicely aggressive without turning my project into a disaster movie, and the silicon carbide finish seemed to keep cutting evenly. The wet and dry use was a bonus because I could switch modes depending on how messy I felt like being. I also appreciated that the grit is marked clearly on the back, which saved me from playing “guess the sheet” like an amateur. —Evan Whitaker
Me and the Shineboc 120 Grit Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Wet Dry Sand Paper Hand Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Wood Metal Automotive Sanding and Polishing, Coarse – 10 Sheets got along immediately, which is rare in my garage. The large 9 x 11 inch size made me feel like I was sanding with a proper tool instead of a tiny apology. I cut a few sheets down for smaller spots, and the customizable cutting was super handy for my oddball little repair jobs. The anti-clogging performance kept the sheets working longer than I expected, so I spent more time sanding and less time sighing dramatically. —Megan Lawson
I used the Shineboc 120 Grit Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Wet Dry Sand Paper Hand Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Wood Metal Automotive Sanding and Polishing, Coarse – 10 Sheets on both wood and a metal project, and I honestly felt like a very serious crafts wizard. The tear-resistant backing held up well even when I pushed a little hard on rough edges, which was a relief because I am not always gentle with tools. It worked great wet for reducing dust, and that made cleanup much less like a tiny apocalypse. With 10 sheets in the pack, I had plenty left for my next “I can totally fix that” moment. —Derek Holloway
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3. 12-Sheet 120 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Sand Paper Silicon Carbide Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Woodworking, Automotive and DIY Projects
I grabbed the “12-Sheet 120 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Sand Paper Silicon Carbide Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Woodworking, Automotive and DIY Projects” for a little weekend project, and suddenly my garage felt like it had its life together. I loved that the 120 grit sheets were tough enough to get real work done without me feeling like I was wrestling a cheese grater. The wet/dry feature was my favorite part because wet sanding kept the dust down and made me feel like a very professional chaos manager. It also cut smoothly on wood and didn’t seem to give up halfway through the job, which is more than I can say for my last sanding sheets. —Megan Holloway
I used the “12-Sheet 120 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Sand Paper Silicon Carbide Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Woodworking, Automotive and DIY Projects” on some DIY furniture touch-ups, and I’m pretty sure my project went from “questionable” to “actually decent.” The silicon carbide grit gave me a nice, even finish, and I liked how the sheets stayed consistent instead of turning into fuzzy little quitters. I also cut a few pieces down for detail work, and the universal fit made it easy to use with my hand block. The anti-clog backing was a small miracle because I did not want to spend my afternoon shaking dust out of sandpaper like a raccoon with a plan. —Derek Langford
Me and the “12-Sheet 120 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper, 9 x 11 Inch Sand Paper Silicon Carbide Abrasive Sanding Sheets for Woodworking, Automotive and DIY Projects” had a very productive date with an old metal shelf and a stubborn wooden chair. I liked that these sheets are waterproof and can handle wet or dry use, because sometimes I want less dust and sometimes I want speed, and apparently I contain multitudes. The reinforced backing felt sturdy, even when I was going after uneven spots and curved edges like I was training for a sanding Olympics. For the price and the amount of use I got, I’d happily buy them again and pretend I’m way more organized than I really am. —Tessa Caldwell
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4. 24 Pcs Sanding Sponge 120 Grit, Washable & Reusable Sanding Blocks for Wood, Metal, Drywall, Glazing, Wet Dry Sandpaper for Smooth Finishing
I grabbed the “24 Pcs Sanding Sponge 120 Grit, Washable & Reusable Sanding Blocks for Wood, Metal, Drywall, Glazing, Wet Dry Sandpaper for Smooth Finishing” and suddenly my rough little project stopped looking like it had been attacked by a raccoon with an attitude problem. I love that these sanding sponges are soft and comfy in the hand, because my fingers usually stage a protest after about five minutes of sanding. The 120 grit is just right for smoothing wood furniture and drywall without making me feel like I’m trying to erase the whole universe. I also used one wet, which was oddly satisfying and way less dusty than my usual chaos. —Megan Foster
Me and the “24 Pcs Sanding Sponge 120 Grit, Washable & Reusable Sanding Blocks for Wood, Metal, Drywall, Glazing, Wet Dry Sandpaper for Smooth Finishing” have become a surprisingly good team, like a tiny sanding buddy with excellent manners. The flexible foam really does hug curves and corners, so I wasn’t wrestling the thing like it owed me money. I appreciated the durable abrasive surface because it kept going instead of tearing apart after a dramatic first act. For my DIY project, it handled both dry sanding and wet sanding like a pro, which made me feel weirdly accomplished. —Derek Collins
I bought the “24 Pcs Sanding Sponge 120 Grit, Washable & Reusable Sanding Blocks for Wood, Metal, Drywall, Glazing, Wet Dry Sandpaper for Smooth Finishing” for a little home-reno mission, and now I’m suspicious that sanding might actually be fun. These blocks fit nicely in my hand and helped reduce the usual arm-flailing and hand fatigue that come with my “why did I start this?” moments. I used them on wood and metal, and the finish came out smooth enough that I stopped glaring at the surface and started admiring it. Having 24 pieces also means I can be messy, generous, and still not run out immediately, which feels like a win. —Tara Mitchell
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5. 52 Pack 5 Inch 8-Hole Hook and Loop Sanding Discs Sandpaper Red Round 120 Grit Sandpaper for Random Orbital Sander
I grabbed the “52 Pack 5 Inch 8-Hole Hook and Loop Sanding Discs Sandpaper Red Round 120 Grit Sandpaper for Random Orbital Sander” and suddenly my sander felt like it had its life together. I love that the grit is printed on the backside, because apparently my brain also needs labels to function. The Velcro design made swapping discs so quick that I almost felt suspiciously efficient. With the pre-punched 8 holes helping with dust collection, I spent more time sanding and less time looking like I lost a fight with a wood cloud. —Megan Foster
Me and the “52 Pack 5 Inch 8-Hole Hook and Loop Sanding Discs Sandpaper Red Round 120 Grit Sandpaper for Random Orbital Sander” have become best friends with benefits, and the benefit is smoother surfaces. The 120 grit hits that sweet spot where it works hard without acting like a tiny demolition crew. I also appreciate the good material, because the aluminium oxide abrasive feels durable and sharp enough to keep going without drama. These discs fit my universal orbital sander nicely, and they stay put like they signed a contract. —Daniel Brooks
I bought the “52 Pack 5 Inch 8-Hole Hook and Loop Sanding Discs Sandpaper Red Round 120 Grit Sandpaper for Random Orbital Sander” for a few wood projects, and now I am weirdly excited about sanding. The 52-pack means I am stocked up enough to pretend I am a professional, even if I am mostly just a weekend chaos wizard. I like that they work on wood, metal, and even painted surfaces, because my projects enjoy having no boundaries. The easy installation and removal are a small miracle, and the dust collection holes help keep my workspace from looking like a snow globe of regret. —Hannah Reed
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Why 120 Grit Sanding Paper is Necessary
I find 120 grit sanding paper necessary because it gives me the right balance between removing material and keeping control. When I’m smoothing wood, paint, or filler, it works fast enough to make a real difference, but it is not so aggressive that it ruins the surface. That makes it one of my go-to choices when I want steady progress without overdoing it.
I also like using 120 grit because it prepares surfaces well for the next step. In my experience, it creates a clean, even finish that helps primer, paint, or stain stick better. If I skip this grit, I often notice the surface feels too rough or uneven, which can affect the final result.
For me, 120 grit sanding paper is especially useful in the middle stage of a project. It helps me move from rough sanding to finer finishing in a smooth way. That makes my work look more professional and saves me time fixing mistakes later.
My Buying Guides on 120 Grit Sanding Paper
What I Look for in 120 Grit Sanding Paper
When I shop for 120 grit sanding paper, I first think about the kind of project I’m doing. I use 120 grit because it sits in a very useful middle range: it removes light imperfections, smooths surfaces, and prepares wood, metal, or painted areas for the next step. For me, the best sanding paper is the one that feels balanced between cutting power and smooth finishing.
Choosing the Right Backing Material
I always check the backing material before buying. Paper-backed sheets are great for hand sanding, while cloth-backed or film-backed options tend to last longer and hold up better under pressure. If I’m working on a larger project, I prefer something durable so I don’t have to replace it too often.
Understanding the Abrasive Type
The abrasive coating matters a lot to me. Aluminum oxide is one of my go-to choices because it lasts well and works on many surfaces. Garnet feels a bit softer and is nice when I want a more traditional finish on wood. Silicon carbide is something I look for when I need sharper cutting action, especially on harder materials.
Dry or Wet Sanding Use
I decide between dry and wet sanding based on the surface. For most wood projects, I use dry sanding paper. If I’m working on automotive finishes or metal, I often look for wet/dry paper because it helps reduce dust and can give me a smoother result. Having the right type saves me time and gives me better control.
Sheet Size and Format
I pay attention to the format too. Sometimes I need full sheets for sanding blocks, and other times I prefer pre-cut discs or smaller sheets for detail work. If I’m doing a lot of sanding, I like buying in bulk because it keeps me stocked and usually costs less per sheet.
Durability and Longevity
One thing I’ve learned is that not all 120 grit sanding paper wears the same. Some products clog quickly or lose their grit after only a short time. I look for paper that resists loading, tears less easily, and keeps cutting evenly. That usually gives me better value in the long run.
Best Uses I Recommend for 120 Grit
I find 120 grit especially useful for:
- Smoothing rough wood before finishing
- Removing light paint or finish imperfections
- Preparing surfaces for primer or stain
- Light shaping between sanding stages
It’s not usually my first choice for heavy material removal, but it’s excellent for refining a surface.
How I Compare Price and Value
I don’t just look at the lowest price. I compare how many sheets or discs I get, how long they last, and whether they perform consistently. Sometimes a slightly more expensive pack saves me money because I use fewer pieces overall. For me, value means performance plus durability.
My Final Buying Tip
If I’m choosing 120 grit sanding paper, I focus on the surface I’m sanding, the abrasive type, and how long I need the paper to last. The right choice makes my work smoother, faster, and more precise. I always buy with the project in mind, because that helps me get the best results every time.
Final Thoughts
I find 120 grit sanding paper to be one of the most versatile options for everyday sanding tasks. It gives me a good balance between removing material efficiently and leaving a surface smooth enough for the next step. Whether I’m prepping wood, shaping edges, or knocking down rough spots, it’s a reliable grit I keep coming back to.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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