My putty got hard.

[Randall Clark]

Guys, gals, is there any way to make old wood putty, that has gone hard in the little jar, soft and usable again?

[Kevin Bourque]

Let it go, Randall. This puttys time on Earth has passed.

[Ole Anderson]

If it is Timbermate, just add some water and soften it up, otherwise I agree with Kevin.

[Bruce Page]

I have used acetone to revitalize wood dough.. with mixed results.

[Mort Stevens]

I have used acetone to revitalize wood dough.. with mixed results.

Depending on what kind of putty it is water, lacquer thinner or vegetable oil - one of those will probably work to soften it up.

[Steve Losing]

i only use two kinds of putty in my shop for all general wood filling I use plastic wood and I buy the large can because it is half the price of the small one. I have revived this putty many times until it is used by just adding enough acetone to get to the consistency that I want. For larger repairs and things that need to hold on there own I buy putty sticks which are a two part epoxy that you cut off what you need and knead it together. One or the other always fits the bill
Steve

[Jim Andrew]

Color putty softens up with mineral spirits. I'm talking about the premixed little jars that painters use when filling nail holes in woodwork.

[Rich Riddle]

What brand id the wood putty? That lets us know what to recommend.

[Keith Christopher]

I was hesitant to open this message based upon the subject line. :)

All kidding aside, I personally have never had any luck revitalizing wood puttys after they set. I would just get new, is it worth the time and effort for 4-6$ for a new container of wood putty ?

[Bill White]

Just another reason to buy Timber Mate.
Bill

[Cary Falk]

I have used acetone to revitalize wood dough.. with mixed results.
I have used acetone with good results also.

[Steve Losing]

The easiest way to find what will soften it is to go online and consult the MSDS of the product to see what its components are then you will know exactly what will be compatabile.

[Gary Thinglum]

I have kept the colored putty in the small jars for years. When I finish using it I pad down the remaining putting in the jar and fill the remainder of the jar with water. Then, I tighten the cap slightly with my channel lock pliers to get a good seal. This will keep the putty for a long time. When I need it again, I open the jar, pour out the water and the putty is like new. I do the same for my window putty. Works great.