How to Use Wood Filler

Wood is a great, durable material for many items, including toys, housing materials and furniture. But often it is prone to cracks or holes because of its age. You can repair it by using wood filler and make it functional again.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose a type based on your project. Solvent-based types are for large or small projects, inside or outside. Water-based types have all the solvent based properties but no odor, and grain filler is for hardwood flooring/large area wood surfaces. For larger holes you may need to use one of the plastic-based fillers.

2. Clean the repair area. Scrape any stray wood pieces with the tip of a knife.

3. Use a trowel when using the grain filler. Place a small amount on to the trowel and spread across the area. Most of the filler should go into the cracks or holes rather than on the existing floor. Sand the area to level off and stain to match surrounding flooring.

4. Spread the solvent or water based type onto the area. Use a putty knife and press it tightly. Do not make the putty completely flush with the existing wood because it will shrink as it dries. Allow to dry for at least 15 minutes.

5. Sand the area with fine grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots. Then buff with steel wool. Clean the excess dust off of the area with a damp cloth.

6. Paint, stain or wax to match existing wood. If you'll be staining the wood, make sure the wood filler you chose is stainable.

Tips & Warnings

• Try your technique on a scrap piece of wood or discreet area to master the technique prior to attempting the entire job.
• Water-based is typically environmentally friendly. It cleans up with water, which is much easier than solvent based that requires turpentine or acetone.
• Consider solventbased if your project is outdoors. Water-based fillers may freeze in cold weather.
• Water- and solvent-based fillers come in up to 20 colors to match your existing wood. You can mix several colors together if you can't find a perfect match.