I'm building a dining room table with a top of white oak. It has 2 or 3 small imperfections (a bit of tear out, open grain near knots), that I need to deal with. I would estimate the imperfection depth at 1/32 or less and maybe 1/2" across, and you can definitely feel them when running a finger over them. I will be staining it a medium-dark shade, then probably finishing with a satin poly (although that is up for discussion). I want the repairs to be as inconspicuous as possible. After reading lots of advice, I'm leaning towards one of these:
1. Use "white oak" shade filler, Timber Mate (or other brand?)
2. Mix sawdust from same stock with shellac
3. Get a card scraper and lower the areas
I have tried Durham's putty and sawdust mixed with Titebond so far in testing, and both stuck out like sore thumbs. Same thing with standard epoxy (hoping it would be clear). With a satin finish, if I go with option 3, will the lowered areas be noticeable? I've never used a scraper but it looks straightforward. For those of you who've used a sawdust mix, is there any base that will allow the sawdust to take the stain, and actually let the repair blend in?
I appreciate any advice from the master finishers.