by Rick Hill
Q.
We nail two pieces of oak together (usually northern, but sometimes southern) with standard brads. We use Famowood putty (birch, because the oaks made our problem worse!) over the nailed area. We sand the wood, apply a honey (medium) oak stain, and then a gloss lacquer.
Obviously, the putty absorbs more stain, causing a little round dark spot. While my Frazee sales rep is fairly knowledgeable, he couldn't recommend a solution. I know it can be done, though. I see other manufacturers able to completely hide the nail and putty area. Any ideas?
A.
You have a common problem in our industry. I have seen several solutions posted on the WoodnetWork before. My favorite method is to mix the stain into the putty prior to smearing the nail hole. That way you can see how close a match you will get. If it is too dark try going to a lighter putty or even a small amount of a lighter stain just for nail holes. You can make a similar but lighter stain by reducing the current stain you use with its appropriate clear reducer.
Rick Hill is an independent representative and consultant for industrial wood finishes. He has been involved in the woodworking industry for 12 years, and has been known to actually hold, shoot, and clean a spray gun.
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