Repair small imperfections with a wood hardener: When working with older or damaged wood, it can be tempting to try to cover up imperfections with wood fillers or putty. However, these products can be difficult to match to the color and grain of the wood, and they may not be very durable over time. A better option may be to use a wood hardener, which is a liquid that soaks into the wood and helps to strengthen and stabilize it. This can be a great way to repair small imperfections and extend the lifespan of the wood.

Use a wood conditioner before staining: If you are planning to stain wood as part of your restoration project, it is important to use a wood conditioner first. This will help to even out the absorption of the stain, resulting in a more even and consistent finish. Without a wood conditioner, you may end up with blotchy or uneven areas of color, which can be difficult to fix.

Use a clean, soft cloth for wiping: When working with wood, it is important to use a clean, soft cloth for wiping and buffing. Hard, abrasive cloths can damage the wood, while dirty cloths can leave behind residue that can affect the finish. Using a clean, soft cloth will help to preserve the wood and ensure a smooth, even finish. For example, if you are applying a finish to a wooden surface, you should use a clean, soft cloth to wipe away any excess finish and to buff the surface to a smooth, even shine.

Use a wood cleaner before sanding: Before sanding wood, it is a good idea to use a wood cleaner to remove any dirt or grime that may be on the surface. This will help to ensure that the sanding process is more effective, and it will also help to prevent any debris from clogging up the sandpaper. Wood cleaners are available in a variety of formulations, and they can be used to clean a wide range of wood types. For example, if you are working on an antique wooden table that has accumulated a lot of dirt and grime over the years, you should use a wood cleaner before sanding to remove any surface contaminants and prepare the wood for sanding

Use a grain filler before sanding: If you are working with wood that has a highly visible grain, you may want to consider using a grain filler before sanding. Grain fillers are specially formulated products that are used to fill in the pores and imperfections of the wood, and they can help to create a smoother and more even surface for sanding. By using a grain filler, you can achieve a better and more consistent finish, and you can also reduce the amount of sanding required. For example, if you are working on a piece of oak wood that has a very pronounced grain, you should consider using a grain filler before sanding to help create a smoother and more even surface.

Use a wood stabilizer before sanding: If you are working with wood that is highly porous or prone to splitting, you may want to consider using a wood stabilizer before sanding. Wood stabilizers are specially formulated products that are used to strengthen and stabilize the wood, and they can help to reduce the risk of splitting or cracking during the sanding process. By using a wood stabilizer, you can improve the overall stability and durability of the wood, and you can also achieve a better and more consistent finish. For example, if you are working on a piece of softwood that is prone to splintering, you should consider using a wood stabilizer before sanding to help reduce the risk of damage.