The very fine strands of steel gently cut into the surface being sanded removing an ultra thin layer.
Sanding primer with steel wool.
The steel wool is very fine and will actually scrape off a very fine layer leaving a silky smooth finish often referred to as a hand rubbed finish.
I don t think he was using epoxy as his base as i don t remember anyone using it then.
That said sanding bare wood beforehand to create a smooth foundation is key.
3 drys and 2 wets each round of sanding preceded by priming.
The main advantage of using steel wool rather than sandpaper is that the steel wool can compress to almost any shape so it can be used much more easily in hard to reach places as well as on complex shapes such as.
Primers may be applied with a roller or paintbrush or from a spray can.
I always use oil based primer on woodwork and cabinets so that i can sand it down to a super smooth feel before beginning my finish painting.
This age old two step technique is commonly used on shellac and lacquer finishes but it can work well on water and oilbased.
Sand lightly with 240 grit sandpaper between coats then let the last coat dry for at least 24 hours.
Start with 120 grit sandpaper and work to finer grade sandpapers ending with 320 grit.
Alternately use a piece of superfine 0000 steel wool to buff between shellac layers.
Without a smooth base you can t get a smooth finish.
Steel wool can be used instead of fine sandpaper for many sanding jobs.
For large flat surfaces use a sanding block to get even pressure.
He would do his initial blocking with 80 grit then recoat and sand with 120 150.
Wipe the surface with a tack cloth to remove the dust.
Synthetic steel wool creates an even silky smooth finish that s a joy to look at and feel.
Sand any raised wood grain or uneven globs of shellac with 400 grit sandpaper.
Think it was an etching primer.
Sanding removes defects and levels ridges.
Re coat and sand with 220 then 2 wet sands.
Follow immediately with the first coat of primer.