Replies

1. 
   HeavyDuty | Apr 09, 2004 06:03am | #1

   Tried linseed oil?

2. 
   goldhiller | Apr 09, 2004 06:33am | #2

   Depends on the brand and what comprises the putty. Usually a look at the ingredients will give you the answer or at the least a clue.

   For instance, the ProBond brand of stuff that dries in seconds on your finger........rehydrate with methyl-ethyl-ketone. Works even if it's a dry lump in the can.

   Elmer's..........water. But don't let that get completely dry and then expect to rehydrate.

   Knowledge is power, but only if applied in a timely fashion.
3. 
   Piffin | Apr 09, 2004 03:35pm | #3

   when working with it, I keep a rag dipped in turpentine handy for cleaning my fingertips. Then I stick it in the can when I close it up.

    

    

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4. 
   4Lorn2 | Apr 11, 2004 05:34am | #4

   Depends. Not a carpenter but I have had a few tries with various putties. Some worked well. Some less so. MEK, Lacquer thinner, acetone, mineral spirits, turpentine, water and even alcohol are options and work on some.

   Check the labels. Most have some listing for a solvent to use to clean up or thin the putty. The later, at least I would think, would be the ticket. I would be careful as adding too much might cause the stuff to shrink a lot or run.

1. 
   elvis | Apr 11, 2004 03:45pm | #5

   mh-patch is good stuff never had it go hard in the can either

5. 
   WorkshopJon | Apr 11, 2004 04:06pm | #6

   "how do you keep your nail hole putty from hardening in the can?"

   Trim,

   Read the side of the can.  Should list out the VOC's. Pick one and add it.  See if it works.

   Jon