Over the past 40 years, I’ve tried just about every wood-filling concoction ever conceived, and water-based fillers are my favorite. I also use a lot of the oil-based putties produced by Minwax and would like to pass on a tip to keep them usable. I had several jars that I didn’t seal properly, and the putty turned rock hard. So I added some mineral spirits, stirred vigorously, and got a jar full of smaller rocks. I then called the Minwax consumer-help number and was told that the proper solvent for their putty is vegetable oil, added a few drops at a time. I tried it on a different jar, and in a few minutes, the putty was soft and pliable. I’ve been using this technique for well over a year with no problems. Minwax did emphasize adding the vegetable oil a little bit at a time to keep the putty from turning into soup.
Jack Hinkel, Apex, NC
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #180
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Thanks for the tip Jack ! I was just about to call Minwax and ask this very same question ! Now I know! Excellent way to get invisible nail holes after finish is applied.
My Dad always kept oil-based putty in a jar with added water on top. The water seals the putty but does not effect the putty in any way (unlike any oil). To use, just open the jar and pour off the water. Our putty kept for years.
I'd guess that linseed oil (aka flaxseed oil, a vegetable oil) is best, if you want it to harden when applied.