Fret work sanding

[Jim-78028]

Ok I am stumped.   I have tried everything I can think of to sand a piece with fret work, fret work that has very narrow strips or stiles (if you are into windows).

I don't break all of them but one or two will break.

Suggestions, tips, please?

[Dannyb]

I bought a set of needle files at Lowes that I really like for small intricate sanding.  They were only 4 bucks too!!! 
http://www.lowes.com/pd_159850-16878-63235_0__?productId=4777067&Ntt=

Hope this helps.

[dunk]

I glued a piece of sandpaper onto a piece of granite left over from a counter install.  Really intricate pieces I can sand on this along with using emery boards and needle files for in between the frets.

[Jim-78028]

Ahhh needle files, now that might help.  I already use the emery boards

Thanks all

[Dan26]

If it's the fuzzy stuff you're trying to sand off try using a torch. A quick pass or two over the back will eliminate them. Also, for reducing the fuzzy stuff I switched to FD-UR blades.

[Kepy]

I have found that laying the piece on my 6" belt sander so the paper holds it in place, allows me to use my orbital sander without a problem.

[Jim-78028]

@ Dan, now that is an interesting thought, I may try that trick with the torch.

@ Kepy, Imaginative!  I have a 4" belt but might try that just to see

Thanks all.

[Bill Wilson]

The torch trick works well, but use a low flame and don't linger on one spot anymore than necessary to singe the fuzzies, or you will end up with charcoal.  DAMHIKT 

Another thing I have done is to use abrasive buffs in my Dremel.  With a very light touch and low speed and it cleans up fuzzies without damaging the piece. 

I use these tricks most when cutting with spiral blades.  For normal fretwork, FD-UR seem to minimize the tearout on the back better than other reverse tooth blades I've used.

[barb e]

I think this was Carol Rothman tip that I am using. Glue a piece of sandpaper to a glazed floor tile and then rub it back and forth.  Your piece is always flat then.  I have 2 different tiles with different grits.

[Jim-78028]

Barb, that is a good one, and I just happen to have some extra tiles, I'll give it a try