After removing damaged paint, which step commonly follows to blend the repaired area with the surrounding surface?

• A. Initial filler shaping with 36-80 grit
• B. Final sanding with 180-320 grit
• C. Feather edging to create a smooth transition
• D. Applying primer

Answer: (C)

Blending the repaired area with the surrounding surface is about creating a gradual transition so there’s no visible edge. This is achieved with feather edging, which tapers the edges of the repair (and any filler) into the adjacent paint. That gradual thinning allows the primer and final paint to build smoothly over the area, giving a seamless look and preventing a sharp line or ridge. After feather edging, you’d continue with smoothing and final prep, then apply primer to ensure good adhesion and color uniformity. The other steps are part of later stages: rough shaping of filler handles contour, and final sanding and primer come after the transition has been created.