Filling end grain

[Al Launier]

I've occasionally used the 2-part auto bondo (pink), that is used to repair sheet metal or paint defects, to fill in the coarse end grains, or to fill in chips, of some projects that are to be painted (not stained). This product hardens well & quickly sands well to produce a smooth finish. I've bought it in small tubes at automotive stores.

How many of you more experienced woodworkers use this product & how does this product compare to the Bondo wood filler available at big box stores such as http://www.lowes.com/pd_8460-98-20052_0__?productId=3044443&store_code=1907&cm_mmc=SCE_PLA-_-Paint-_-WallRepair-_-3044443:Bondo&CAWELAID=&kpid=3044443&CAWELAID=1368001260&k_clickID=580bbf1d-618a-4358-93f6-81b32bcd8fca? Does this last bondo product, or other similar brand, result in a good hard surface that is easily sandable & moves with wood?

If you have a recommendation for a better product altogether please do so.

[Stan Calow]

I've used the two part Elmers wood fill epoxy product for outdoor wood repairs. Works fine and sands and finishes well.

[Tom Ewell]

Abatron is the two part I use but it needs to cure 'overnight' before it can be worked. They have a complete system for restore/repair of rotted areas.
It's a bit expensive but the shelf life of the non mixed components is excellent, I've just picked up 2 quarts again and what was left of the old stuff from 2011 performed just as well. It's a bit tricky to work with but once there, it stays put.

For end grain and grain filler on interior work I've used Timbermate products, can be stained but don't expect perfect matching.
Shelf life for this one is great too, just add water to refresh or thin out.
Don't want to use a metal knife to spread this stuff either if the intention is to stain your project.

[Jim Becker]

Honestly, I just use inexpensive spackle for this...

[Jim Finn]

Honestly, I just use inexpensive spackle for this...
That is what I do also.

[Wayne Lomman]

Al, I use 3M polyester auto body filler for holes/defects that are big or are awkward shaped. Any of the polyesters or epoxies will bond well and cure all the way through in these situations. Otherwise I use Timbermate Like Tom does. It's quick and easy. Cheers

[Bill Ryall]

Durham's Rock Hard Water Putty.

Cheap, versatile and effective.

[Brian W Smith]

Rage Gold,only comes in G size however.But it's all relative?Our last TB III glue up was 11 1/2 G's.

[Tom Ewell]

Jims' comment reminded me that I've also used the light weight 'spackle' stuff like Fast N Final and One Time for end grain, nail holes and small blems on interior paint grade, usually because the other stuff was left behind at the shop.

[David Dockstader]

Durham's Rock Hard Water Putty if you are going to paint. It WILL NOT take a stain, but it sands as smooth and flat as can be. And they aren't lying when it says "Rock Hard."

[Roy Harding]

I've used auto body filler, spackle, and plaster of paris for painted items. They're all acceptable.

I've also used plaster of paris for grain filler in red oak - it works well there as well.

[Al Launier]

Thanks for all your comments.