Each side gets sanded many times. I work up to 600 grit, which gives the wood a nice smooth finish perfect for engraving, cutting, painting and more. After sanding I cover each with special tape that prevents burn marks when engraving.

I mostly use acrylics when using paint. Watercolors more "dyes" the wood then paints it. I have also tried colored pencils, the result is similar to watercolors where it changes colors and shows off wood grain.

You will also probably want to seal your wood and paints - please look under "How should I finish the wood?" in this FAQ for recommendations.

Paint Pens: Posca extra fine paint pens with tips that are 0.7mm. They work extremely well even with the tiniest details.

Also Ultra fine (even smaller tip) and fine (slightly larger tip) Posca Paint Markers work as well. And they have some other colors the extra fine ones don't to extend the color range.

Recently tried TOOLI-ART .7mm paint pens. They need more priming then posca markers, but they have a range of over 200 colors including neon, metallic and glitter ones. So far, I am really liking them. And you can buy extra nibs so don't have to worry about tip wearing down.

Head Mount Magnifier glasses.

They come with many different magification lenses you can switch out and have a light to boot, which has made things so much easier when trying to find a consistent light source. They make it so much easier to paint more evenly, especially the smaller items, and are rechargable as well.

An example: (not the ones I bought as they are no longer available, can find a cheaper version if look, I am sure)

Example, Click Here

You definitely have to do some trial & error in finding what brushes work for you because not all sizes are the same across companies.

On very small items you will want to use very light paint on the brush tip so that it doesn't go inside engravings. It is better to do a couple thin layers than to put too thick paint on top and ruin the tiny project.

Here are size #20 detail brushes I have found that work great for teeny tiny areas that need painting:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MY86CN0

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C9717JG

Some small brushes for filling in larger areas. The smallest brush head labeled 18/0 in 1st:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MPXEWW7

or

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J2IZGI2

Most can use 6mm posts. The tinier ones will need 4mm posts. I try to include which ones require the smaller posts in the product listings.

At the moment I use epoxy E6000. I have never had anything fall apart after using it as far as jewelry items and the like. You do need to make sure you apply in a ventilated area. If anyone ever finds a more natural glue that is as strong as this - please let me know!

My Recommendations:

Non-yellowing:
• My favorite - Deft Wood Finish - is even baby safe once dries - but can be expensive - stock up when on sale!
• Miniwax Lacquer
• Krylon Acrylic Spray

Natural: (also a favorite)
• Odie's Oil (non-toxic). Does Not work over paints. This does make wood darken some and brings out the natural grain.

I am sure there are many other ways to finish wood. But this is what I have used up to this point. I usually prefer semi-gloss or the like, but that is my personal preference.

Again, wood oils do not work over paints! But if you plan to leave the wood natural while adding some protection, than these can be great.