The invention includes a method for preparing and buffing an item made of powder coated MDF (or other substrate containing wood) with the end result of improved visual and tactile smoothness; the invention includes the steps of cutting and machining the part, pre-powder preparation and sanding of the part, powder coating the part, post-powder preparation and sanding, and buffing the part. This method of sanding and buffing results in a smoother finish than is currently available in any other powder coated MDF finish while requiring less coats than similar liquid paint finishes.