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Unpopular opinion: I skip the grain filler on oak and love the textured look it leaves.
I used to fill every pore, but leaving them open on my last chair project saved time and added character.
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anderson.grant4d ago
My last oak table has that raw texture too and people always ask how I got it.
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the_noah4d ago
In my town, raw oak like yours, @anderson.grant, gets people talking.
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caleb_price3d ago
Did you actually apply a finish after skipping the grain filler? Calling it "raw" oak isn't right if you used any oil or varnish. That textured look comes from the open pores, but it still needs a sealant to last. I skip filler on my pieces too, but I always use a wipe-on poly to protect the wood.
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