Before starting your stroke, place the scraper flush with the surface and apply just enough pressure to start your stroke, then ease up slightly and pull the scraper through the paint. Allow the scraper to glide smoothly across the surface. Never apply excessive pressure to the extent where the scraper gouges the wood. Flushness and pulling in even, controlled strokes works best. Adjusting the scraping angle is necessary because thin coats of paint require less scraping angle than thick coats. A clean scraper does best. Some paints and coatings may be gummy and adhere to the blade. Frequently clean away paint residue from the blade's surface. Blade cleaning may be accomplished by using a second scraper to scrape away any paint residue. FINISH SANDING After stripping is complete, a little light sanding will give wood a smooth, professional-like finish. Use either a medium 60 or 80 grit sandpaper, or preferably a sanding sponge. Sanding sponges are easier to hold and easily conform to contoured surfaces and corners.