Naturally, some types of wood have smoother surfaces than others. For example, open-grain woods like pine and redwood have more texture. On the other hand, closed-grain woods like maple and oak feel a lot less bumpy to the touch.

No matter what type of wood you’re working with, you might still come across cracks, dents, or rough spots. Wood fillers such as Durham’s Rock Hard Water Putty become essential. Such a product makes it easy to fill in those imperfections and create a flat, smooth surface.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to create a flat surface with wood putty or wood filler. So, keep reading to learn more about it and get that perfect finish you want.

Supplies You Will Need

Before you start, it’s always a good idea to gather all your tools and materials. After all, you don’t want to have to run to the nearest store mid-work to grab something you forgot.

Here’s what you’ll need to flatten out a wood surface using Durham’s Water Putty:

• Durham’s Water Putty: The product dries rock hard and is ideal for smoothing out pores and holes in a piece of wood.
• Water: Plain tap water will do for mixing the putty.
• Mixing Container: You can use a small bowl, plastic tub, or any vessel you don’t mind getting messy.
• Putty Knife or Scraper: It helps spread out the putty evenly across the wooden surface.
• Sandpaper or Orbit Sander: Use medium-grit sandpaper (100–120) for shaping and fine-grit (like 220) for finishing.
• Damp Cloth or Sponge: It’s handy for wiping away dust or smoothing edges before the putty dries.
• Protective Gloves (Optional): They keep your hands clean and protected while working.
• Dust Mask (Optional): It’s especially useful when sanding indoors.
• Wood Finish: Use it to seal the putty and build up a nice sheen if you need to.

Mix Up Durham’s Water Putty

Now that all your tools are ready, it’s time to get to work. Start by preparing the Durham’s Water Putty mixture in the container of your choice. Principally, the product comes in a dry form as a powder. So, you’ll need to add water to it to achieve the right texture.

Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Start by adding a small amount of Durham’s Water Putty into the mixing container.
2. Slowly add water a little bit at a time (The recommended amount is three parts of powder to one part of water).
3. Continue adding water and stir as you go until the mixture has a slightly runny texture (for easier application).
4. Aim for a consistency that’s thick enough to stay in place when you spread it, but not so thick that it crumbles or becomes hard to work with.

Important Note: Only mix the amount you need for the job. Durham’s Water Putty dries fast and hard, so it’s best to work in small batches, especially if you’re covering a large area.

Image credit: @WoodsmithShowandmagazine YouTube Channel

Spread the Putty Over the Surface

Once the putty is mixed and ready, the next step is to apply it to the wood. All you need to do is pour the mixture over the area you’re filling and use a putty knife or scraper to spread it.

Image credit: @WoodsmithShowandmagazine YouTube Channel

Use a Putty Knife With the Grain

If you’re filling shallow scratches, cracks, or minor dents, start by applying the putty in the direction of the wood grain. This helps the filler settle naturally into the grooves and creates a smoother finish that’s easier to blend in later.

Just drag your knife along the surface of the wood after pouring the mixture and press it gently into the imperfections. The trick is to use even strokes and not overload the area with putty. Overall, you can always add more if needed.

Image credit: @WoodsmithShowandmagazine YouTube Channel

Use a Putty Knife Across the Grain

After you scrape the putty along the grain, start to do more strokes across the grain. This lets you push the filler more firmly into the pores and dents, filling in gaps more effectively.

Make sure to use steady pressure to work the putty into place. In general, don’t be afraid to build the rougher areas up a little higher than their surroundings. In all cases, it gives you room to sand it level once it’s dry.

Once you’re satisfied with the amount of putty you spread, use the flat edge of your knife to scrape off any extra. You need to try to smooth things out as much as possible before letting it dry.

Image credit: @WoodsmithShowandmagazine YouTube Channel

Let the Putty Fully Dry

Once the putty is in place, it’s essential to let it dry before you proceed with sanding or finishing the wood. Durham’s Water Putty dries hard and strong, but it needs time to set properly. For more detailed guidance, check out this article on how to know when Durham’s Water Putty has dried.

Take a look at a few helpful tips to help you through the drying process:

• Apply the putty at a temperature above 50° F for optimal results (In cooler areas, drying time can extend longer than expected).
• The surrounding humidity can affect the drying time.
• The putty isn’t as strong as needed until it completely dries.
• Try to use cold water for mixing the putty.
• If you need to slow down the drying process, add vinegar to the mixture (only 25% or less of the water you add).
• Overworking the mixture can cause the putty to dry too quickly.
• Drying time can vary depending on how thick the layer you applied is and how much water you used in the mix.
• Rushing the drying step can lead to cracks or uneven surfaces later on.
• Lightly sand the surface to determine if it’s fully dry already (If the area becomes dusty when sanded, it’s ready).
• Your work surface isn’t ready if it feels sticky when sanded.

Sand the Surface to Remove Excess Putty

The next step after letting the putty dry completely (preferably overnight) is sanding it down. When done right, sanding should smooth out the surface and remove any extra putty buildup.

Here’s how to do it perfectly:

1. Start with medium-grit sandpaper to level out any raised areas.
2. Switch to fine-grit sandpaper to create a smoother finish that goes well with the rest of the wood.
3. Use an orbit sander if available to help you get the job done more quickly and easily.
4. Work in a circular motion or along the grain (whichever you see fit for the shape of the repair).
5. Go slowly and use your hand to check your progress by feeling the surface.
6. Apply another thin layer of putty and repeat the process if you still feel some dents or cracks.
7. Make sure to wipe away all the dust using a damp cloth before proceeding with the next step.

Image credit: @WoodsmithShowandmagazine YouTube Channel

Apply a Clear Finish

Lastly, you need to seal your smoothed-out wood surface to protect the work you’ve done and get a nice sheen. If you’re not planning to paint over the putty, a clear finish is a great option. It highlights the natural beauty of wood grains while locking everything in.

All you need to do is the following:

1. Choose the right finish that matches what you have in mind (polyurethane, lacquer, or water-based wood sealer).
2. Use a clean cloth to apply the finish in a thin, even coat.
3. Follow the product instructions for drying time.
4. Apply another layer or two of finish to ensure adequate protection (you need to sand in between coats).

Important Note: Durham’s Water Putty isn’t stainable. So, if you’re aiming for a natural wood look, a clear coat is the option you should go for. Otherwise, you can add wood stain or dye to the putty mixture before applying it.

Image credit: @WoodsmithShowandmagazine YouTube Channel

Other Common Uses for Durham’s Water Putty

Durham’s Water Putty isn’t just for smoothing out wood surfaces. It’s actually a versatile product that you can use for all kinds of repairs and projects around your house.

Here are some of the most common ways people use Durham’s Water Putty:

• Repairing Cracks in Drywall or Plaster Walls: You can use Durham’s Water Putty to fill in and conceal any wall cracks. The good news is that it doesn’t shrink, making it ideal for such small fixes.
• Filling Holes in Wooden Furniture: The product is quite handy for filling nail holes or large screw holes in wood. You can leave it uncolored if you plan to paint it later or stain the putty as you mix it to match the area you’re patching.
• Hanging Pictures More Securely: If you’re reusing an old nail or wire hole in the wall, you can strengthen it by filling the hole with a small amount of Durham’s Water Putty. While it’s still soft, insert the nail or hanger and let it dry.
• Fixing Loose Drawer Knobs: For drawer knobs that wiggle or won’t stay in place, Durham’s Water Putty can be the right fix. Just fill in the oversized hole with the putty and press the knob shaft into place. Once it hardens, the knob will be secure again.

Securing Loose Door Bumpers: Durham’s Water Putty also helps secure a door bumper or stop that keeps coming loose. You only need to fill in the large hole as previously mentioned and press the bumper back into place.