I finally stopped using grain filler on oak after a job in Portland last week.

Three years ago I swore by it, but last month I saw how it just muddies the natural texture. Has anyone else switched to just multiple coats of oil instead?

3 comments

3 Comments

mark_nguyen951mo agoMost Upvoted

You stopped using grain filler completely? That seems like a huge shift. I can't imagine getting a smooth surface on oak without it.

zara_miller27d ago

My uncle's 1970s Danish teak credenza never had filler. The grain still feels like silk after fifty years.

beth_green1mo ago

That Portland job must have been eye opening. What finish were you using that made the grain filler look muddy in comparison? I'm curious if it's the oil type or the wood prep.