Filling in the defect with the proper material and making the repair level is critical to a good repair. The defect must be perfectly level. If you are unable to see the repair but can still feel it, then it is not considered a good repair.

Prior to choosing the correct material for filling the defect, the damaged area must be evaluated for:

• Loose fibers
• Torn wood fibers
• Durability requirements

The damaged area must be free of loose or torn fibers. These must be trimmed from the damaged area because they can create an unlevel repair or loss of adhesion.

Durability requirements of the repair will determine what type of filling material is required. Our options for filling material are:

• Wax fill sticks
• Burn-in sticks
• Satin burn-in sticks
• Epoxy filler

A waxstick is an excellent choice for filling minor cuts, nicks and scratches that are in areas where durability is not an issue. This type of product comes in a wide variety of colors and is easy to use. Firmly rub the waxstick across the scratch to fill in the defect. The area around the scratch will then need to be cleaned, using a plastic scraper (credit card or plastic hotel card key); then polish with a clean cloth. This provides a quick and easy repair.

Burn-in sticks or satin burn-in sticks are the correct choice for deeper cuts, nicks and scratches located on tabletops, cabinet doors and areas where durability is a requirement. Burn-in sticks are very hard and provide a glossy repair. Satin burn-in sticks are more flexible and are slightly softer than shellac sticks and offer a lower sheen repair. These products also come in a wide variety of colors.

With practice, burn-ins become easy to use and make for an excellent repair. A burn-in knife is required and there are three options to choose from: an electric knife, propane knife and knives that are used with a small oven. All three types will complete the job; however, the electric knife and propane knife are portable and make on-site repairs much easier.

When using burn-in materials, the knife is used to apply the material to the defect and then used to remove the excess material. Care must be taken when using the hot knife so as not to cause further damage to the surrounding finish while performing the repair on the damaged area. The use of a burn-in balm when removing the excess burn-in material will help prevent this and is a must for making a level burn-in repair.

Broken or crushed corners or deep gouges can easily be repaired with the use of Epoxy filler. This product can be shaped to form sharp edges and sands well. It also readily accepts the application of colors.

The keys to filling in the defect are:

• Removing loose fibers from the damaged area
• Choosing the correct material for the durability requirements of the repair
• Making a smooth level repair