A sanding pad is a critical aid when hand-sanding. It not only helps ensure a flat surface because it itself is flat, but the right ones also make gripping sandpaper less taxing. My problem is I rarely have one on hand. If I make one, I invariably lose it, so I end up grabbing a piece of scrap of about the right size and then making do.

Thanks to Infinity’s sanding pads, I’m done settling. I tried the 5-in. circular and mouse pads when sanding a pair of interior doors, and both worked a treat. Each fit my 5-in. mesh disks perfectly, making changing them both a breeze and satisfying. The circular pad was easy to grip and allowed for good pressure both one- and two-handed. It also worked well when sanding edges, since it has enough room to wrap my fingers underneath it to register them along a board’s face. The mouse pad also sat nicely in my hand. I used it more for controlled finish sanding. 

Another perk: The pads are yellow, so they were easy to spot amid all the other clutter on my bench. It’s a nice benefit when I’m already frustrated because I’m sanding. 

Infinity also sells a 6-in. circular pad. 

—Barry NM Dima is an associate editor.

Photos: Barry NM Dima

From Fine Woodworking #300

	Tool Review: Random-Orbit Sander ‘SandNet’ Disks by Diablo Long-lasting mesh sanding pads
	Video: How to Turn a Tapered Shaker Leg Used sanding pads and a neat trick using graphite make for one terrific taper.
	Tool Review: Sanding Nets by Festool Regardless of what Adam Godet threw at Festool’s new Granat Net abrasives, they were more durable, cleaner, and clogged less than conventional sanding disks.