What tool can be used to protect fingers when sanding a small workpiece?

When sanding a small workpiece, it is crucial to protect your fingers and hands from potential injury due to sharp edges or the abrasive nature of the sandpaper. The most effective tool for this purpose is gloves. Wearing gloves offers a protective barrier between your skin and any sharp surfaces or irritants that may arise during the sanding process. Gloves can also provide better grip on the workpiece, allowing for safer handling.

While other options like pliers or vice grips can aid in holding the workpiece securely, they do not provide the same level of protection for your fingers and hands as gloves do. Sandpaper, on the other hand, is the material being used for sanding, not a protective tool, and thus does not serve the purpose of protecting fingers. In this case, gloves remain the best choice for ensuring safety while performing sanding tasks on small pieces.