Fine Sanding with 220 Grit

What happens here

After the initial 120-grit sanding, switch to a finer 220-grit sandpaper. This step refines the surface further, removing any sanding marks left by the coarser grit and creating a very smooth texture that will accept the stain evenly. Crucially, always sand *with* the wood grain, not against it. Sanding against the grain can create noticeable scratches that will become pronounced once the stain is applied, leading to an undesirable finish. Continue sanding until the entire surface feels uniformly smooth to the touch.

Goal: Finish sanding the wood with 220-grit sandpaper, ensuring you move with the wood grain to achieve a very smooth surface without visible scratches.