Expert: Kirk Ryan - 9/9/2010

Question
I have an unfinished piece of cherry plywood that I'm going to put a clear finish on, but there are 2 chips out of it. I would like to know, if possible, how to patch these so they aren't obvious before I put a clear finish on it. (FYI this is like a table top.)Thanks for you help.

Answer
The easiest thing to do, is to get some wood filler. Try to get something as close to natural cherry as you can. Then you should be able to find either some touch up markers, or better, some touch up paint pens that can match your cherry. If done right, you shouldn't even notice it. You will have to wait for the filler to dry well before you can paint it. Also wait a good few days for everything to dry out nice before you use your clear finish. Good luck!