In Northern Europe, this product is referred to as Swedish Putty; in France it is more commonly known as Enduit (on-dwee). It is a most unusual filling compound which has been used by European craftsmen since the eighteenth-century to produce spectacular results. With this material and a bit of patience, it is possible to obtain glass-like surfaces by applying very thin coats which are subsequently sanded with a fine grit paper (wet or dry). When sanding swedish putty dry, a mask is recommended.The basic ingredients have always been finely ground titanium dioxide and silicates, combined with linseed oil and varnishes. Until recently, this material was mixed at the jobsite according to jealously guarded secret family formulas. Today, it is available from the factory for both interior and exterior use.Swedish Putty should be applied in multiple thin, even coats in order to produce a substrate free of imperfections. Swedish Putty may be applied on non-flat surfaces such as moldings and trim with a sponge impregnated with linseed oil. This material is frequently used by decorative painters to prepare walls and surfaces for glazing, tromp l’oeil and lacquer like monochromatic finishes. (NOTE: It is much more durable then Gesso.) Swedish Putty is especially useful in transforming old kitchen cabinets into new ones when coated with Hollandlac Brilliant Gloss or Satin Enamel.Swedish Putty may be used to perfect walls and ceilings or smaller “high focus” projects such as a front door. It is a material which can yield spectacular results even for first time users.Swedish Putty is available in two colors: natural off-white and khaki. Most professionals prefer to work with off-white on woodwork and khaki on walls and ceilings.WHEN USED TO PERFECT A SUBSTRATE PRIOR TO THE USE OF HIGH GLOSS FINISHES, SWEDISH PUTTY SHOULD NOT BE RE-PRIMED AS DOING SO WILL REINTRODUCE TEXTURE TO THE SUBSTRATE AND RESULT IN A LESS “MIRROR LIKE” FINISH.
