When choosing wood filler for repairing modern office furniture, there are several types to consider, each with its own advantages and best use cases. Here are some recommendations based on the latest information:

Types of Wood Fillers

1. Water-Based Wood Fillers
   - Pros: Easy to apply, quick-drying, and easy to clean up with water. Suitable for small repairs, nail holes, and minor imperfections. Can be sanded and painted once dry.
   - Cons: Not ideal for large repairs or high-traffic areas. May not adhere well to glossy surfaces.
   - Example: DAP Plastic Wood Filler is a versatile option that works well for interior repairs and can be painted or stained .

2. Epoxy Wood Fillers
   - Pros: Two-part compounds known for their strength and durability. Ideal for large repairs and structural fixes. Can be sanded, drilled, and painted.
   - Cons: More expensive and require mixing. Not suitable for small repairs.
   - Example: Epoxy fillers are great for high-traffic areas and outdoor use, providing long-lasting repairs .

3. Solvent-Based Wood Fillers
   - Pros: Strong adhesion, water-resistant, and suitable for both interior and exterior use. Good for larger repairs and areas exposed to moisture.
   - Cons: Require mineral spirits for cleanup. May emit strong odors.
   - Example: Solvent-based fillers are ideal for exterior repairs or areas that need extra durability .

4. Latex Wood Fillers
   - Pros: Flexible, easy to apply, and can be painted or sanded. Suitable for trim and molding joints.
   - Cons: Not as strong as epoxy or solvent-based fillers. May not be suitable for large repairs.
   - Example: Latex fillers are great for interior projects where flexibility is needed .

Tips for Choosing the Right Wood Filler

- Location of Repair: For interior repairs, water-based fillers are often sufficient. For exterior repairs or areas exposed to moisture, consider solvent-based or epoxy fillers.
- Size of Damage: Small nail holes and minor imperfections can be handled with water-based fillers. For larger repairs, solvent-based or epoxy fillers are more appropriate.
- Finish Considerations: If you plan to stain the wood, choose a filler that matches the wood color and is stainable. For painted surfaces, any filler that is paintable will work.
- Structural Integrity: If the repair is in a load-bearing or high-stress area, epoxy fillers are the best choice due to their strength and durability.

Application Techniques

1. Prepare the Surface:
   - Clean the area thoroughly, removing any dirt, dust, or loose wood fibers.
   - Sand the surface lightly to create a better bonding surface.
   - Remove all sanding dust before applying the filler.

2. Apply the Filler:
   - Use a putty knife or plastic spreader to apply the filler.
   - Overfill the hole or crack slightly to account for shrinkage.
   - Smooth the surface of the filler, feathering the edges to blend with the surrounding wood.

3. Sand and Finish:
   - Allow the filler to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
   - Sand the filled area smooth, starting with coarse-grit sandpaper and progressing to finer grits.
   - Clean the sanded area thoroughly before painting or staining to remove any residual dust or debris.

DIY Wood Filler Solution

For a more hands-on approach, you can create a DIY wood filler using sawdust and wood glue. This mixture is particularly useful for achieving a close color match on stained or natural wood surfaces:

1. Collect fine sawdust from the wood you’re repairing.
2. Mix the sawdust with wood glue to create a paste.
3. Apply the mixture to the damaged area, overfilling slightly.
4. Allow to dry completely before sanding smooth.

For increased durability, consider adding a small amount of epoxy to the sawdust and glue mixture .

By following these tips and choosing the right type of wood filler, you can effectively repair and restore your modern office furniture to look like new.