Wood filler

Wood filler, also known as Wood putty or Plastic wood, is a substance used to fill imperfections, nail holes or pores in wood prior to finishing. "Wood putty" or "plastic wood" usually refer to the thicker version used to fix imperfections and small holes, while "Wood filler" refers to the thinner version used to fill pores. It is often composed of wood dust combined with a binder that dries and a diluent, and, sometimes, pigment. Pore fillers used for large flat surfaces such as floors or table tops generally contain silica instead of or in addition to wood dust. Pores can also be filled using multiple coats of the final finish rather than a pore filler.

The main problem in using putty is matching the colour of the putty to that of the wood. Putties are usually sanded after they dry before applying the finish.

Many different brands, types and colours are commercially available. Binders include lacquer, water-base, and linseed oil. Some woodworkers make their own putty using fine sanding dust (not sawdust which is too coarse) with wood glue or a wood finish such as shellac.

ee also

*Wood finishing
*Putty

References

*Michael Dresdner (1992). "The Woodfinishing Book". Taunton Press. ISBN 1-56158-037-6
*Bob Flexner (1994). "Understanding Wood Finishing: How to Select and Apply the Right Finish". Rodale Press. ISBN 0-87596-566-0