Apply First Coat of Grain Filler

What happens here

Once the furniture surface is clean and free of sanding dust, apply the first coat of Aqua Coat Cabinet Grain Filler. Use a plastic or rubber spreader to scoop a small amount of filler and spread it thinly and evenly over the wood. Work the filler into the grain in multiple directions (cross-grain first, then with the grain) to ensure thorough penetration and filling of all pores and imperfections. Immediately scrape off any excess filler, leaving only the material that has settled into the grain. The goal is to fill the grain, not build up a thick layer on the surface. Allow this coat to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions, which typically takes a few hours depending on humidity and temperature.

Goal: Apply the initial layer of water-based wood grain filler across the entire sanded surface, working it into the pores and smoothing out any excess.