In the April 2007 FineScale Modeler, Chuck Bevill and Greg Gregg used a belt sander to smooth drywall for a diorama base. This is pretty messy and lacks fine control. Instead, use drywall sanding screens. They come in 120 and 220 grit; most measure 4″ X 8″. You can cut them to fit your orbital sander (use it with the sander off!) or wrap them around drywall or wood for a sanding block. Or, if you plan to use the technique often, buy a sanding-screen holder. They come with a plane handle and are even available with a vacuum-cleaner hose attachment. I like this best of all, because it sucks up the dust as I sand. However, make sure your vacuum is HEPA-rated or you”ll send the dest everywhere fast.

Tip submitted by:
Paul MayerSteger, Illinois