Getting close to a polish now. Tamiya’s 2000-grit sanding sponge takes an already-smooth surface to almost glassy, its flexible foam base moulding into curves and reaching corners a flat sanding stick never could. Cut it down to whatever size the job needs with a hobby knife, and use it wet for the finest possible finish on plastic, wood or metal.

What’s in the pack

• One 114 x 140mm sanding sponge sheet
• Aluminium oxide abrasive backed on 5mm sponge
• Grit: 2000 (very fine)

Why it’s good

• Takes a smooth surface to near-polished
• Flexes into curves and tight corners a rigid sanding stick can’t reach
• Safe for wet sanding, and cuts down cleanly with a modelling knife

This is the grit that makes the difference between shiny and mirror-shiny before a clear coat goes on.

The near-final polish step. Grab a coarser grade from the Tamiya range to work your way down before you get here.