Step 8: Smooth the Cut Edges

smooth the cut edges
Photo: Wendell T. Webber
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Lay the slab flat again. Using a random-orbit sander with 100-grit sandpaper, ease or round over any cut edges. Then, sand them to a smooth finish with 220-grit sandpaper. Also, sand out any nicks or scratches on the countertop's surface with the same succession of grits.

TIP: You can ease the edge more with the sander fitted with 100-grit paper followed by 220-grit. Or, for a more elaborate edge detail, shape the edge with a router fitted with a carbide bit.
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    Tools List

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    • four-foot level
      4-foot level

    • bar clamps
      Bar Clamps and Spring Clamps

    • hammer
      Hammer

    • drill
      Drill/driver fitted with 2-inch diamond hole saw

    • straightedge guide
      Straighedge

    • circular saw
      Circular saw fitted with diamond blade

    • jigsaw
      Jigsaw fitted with metal-cutting blade

    • random orbit sander
      Random-orbit sander with 100-grit and 220-grit paper

    • angle grinder
      Grinder fitted with diamond blade

    • putty knife
      Putty Knife

    • single edge razor
      Razor Blade

    • caulk gun
      Caulk Gun

    Shopping List

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    1. Soapstone. For the best price, buy directly from an importer (most soapstone comes from Brazil or India). You can find them online, and many will send you samples to help you select the right color. Plan ahead, giving yourself as much as six weeks for delivery time.

    2. Shims to level cabinets.

    3. 2x4s to support the slab when cutting it and act as a brace.

    4. 2½-Inch Deck Screws to hold cabinets level and flush to each other.

    5. Masking Tape for protecting the stone as you cut out for sinks and other fixtures.

    6. Painter's Tape for protecting the stone as you create the joints.

    7. 1/4-by-1½-Inch Carriage Bolts to brace an undermount sink.

    8. Undermount Clips to hold an undermount sink in place. Most new sinks come with the clips, or are available at plumbing-supply stores.

    9. Polyester/Acrylic Stone Seam Adhesive (available through stone suppliers) to form an invisible bond between two slabs. This is a two-part product that has to be mixed before use.

    10. Kitchen and Bath Sealant to secure the sink to the stone. Look for a 100 percent silicone product.

    11. Denatured Alcohol to clean the stone.

    12. Mineral Oil to finish and seal the stone.