Just tried a new grain filler on a walnut table and the difference was crazy

Honestly, I've been using the old oil-based paste filler for ages on open grain woods, but this time I grabbed a water-based one from the local supplier. Ngl, it dried way faster, sanded smoother, and didn't mess with my stain color at all. Anyone have a favorite brand for water-based fillers they'd recommend?

3 comments

3 Comments

kim6931mo agoMost Upvoted

Oil-based filler is basically the woodworking version of a VCR. It got the job done, but we all moved on for a reason. The new stuff is just better.

blairtaylor28d ago

Yeah but the new stuff shrinks like crazy on big gaps. I've had to do three coats on a knot hole that oil would've filled in one go. Guess it depends if you want speed or a project that's done right the first time.

ryan_gibson841mo ago

Tell that to the guy who still uses my old VCR to tape his shows. Some folks just like the way oil filler sands down, even if it takes forever to dry.