No good carpenter ever uses very much putty, but when one is just starting there is sure to be a crack or a seam, as well as some nail holes, that will require filling in. Always work up the putty in the hand until it is soft and free from lumps. Never attempt to apply it to new wood, because the wood will absorb the oil and the putty will crumble out. See that the oil stain runs well into the places to be puttied and also work up a little stain with the putty so that it will match the wood. Never apply the putty until the wood is perfectly dry.