[masraum]

Originally Posted by look 171

Then reason for the sealer is to prevent the putty to get onto the flat area of the lumber. Ideally, the putty should be apply only into the nail hole, most people just smear the putty on with a putty knife and that will cause it to get over into the grain of the wood. That will stain lighter and it will read. You can see the difference.

Right, I've made that mistake once, never again. I'll be painting that piece before too long.

How about screw and plug. Match grain and a little putty,and you would have to get close to see the plug.[/QUOTE]

I've thought about that. I think I even have the bit to drill the plugs. I've never tried it though. I do prefer screws to nails for just about anything but drywall.