[Richard and Rhonda]

On the smaller pieces with close proximity to stuff you don't want to sand, you're on the right track by putting a couple layers of masking tape to protect the surrounding surfaces.

Also don't try to run your orbital too close to the edges. Get some of the same grit paper and use a hand sanding block. Also wrap the paper on the block so that you don't have a sanding edge up against the whatever you don't want to sand. When hand sanding don't go too heavy with the coarse grits or you'll put deep scratches in the surface.

If you want super shiny surfaces, you can buy all the way up to 2000 grit paper for wet sanding at any auto paint supply place. Follow that up with buffing compound and the countertop shine like a new penny.