best way to fill mahogany pores for staining

[shaun]

Im halfway through refinishing an 80's Fernandez Flying V (will post pics of the whole process when finished) made of a very open pored mahogany.
Problem is the grain filler. I used a methylated spirit based filler (I think this is what you call denatured alcohol in the States), let it dry for a few days, and then applied a spirit based dye over the filler, onto the bare wood. The dye seems to 'melt away' the filler.
I reapplied the filler, got the surface pretty smooth, but when i go with another coat of dye the filler seems to disappear again.

It doesnt bother me so much with this guitar as i am experimenting with Tru Oil as a finish, and if the finish turns out ok on this guitar i may possibly refinish a LP in the future with Tru Oil, but i want the grain to be totally filled.
I dont have access to spray equipment, and nitro in a spray can is virtually impossible to get in Australia (that I know of).
Is a brush on sanding sealer the best way to go?
Thanks.

 

[w666]

Dye first, then fill?

 

[Indyclone]

On my mahogany back and neck I had success with an oil based stain first, then Deft Sandable sealer.

After the stain was good and dry I sprayed 2 good coats of the clear sanding sealer, sanded it down with 600 grit. That got most of the grain filled, then I did one more wet coat of the sanding sealer then sanded it a little. Grain filled... and the stain looked great. Only thing to do after that is the clear coats.

 

[Sawgwa]

Coloring the filler is also an option.

 

[shaun]

Iv'e been reading up and the best way is to stain first, then apply the grain filler or sanding sealer. Most grain fillers will also stain the wood slightly, so another way is to stain, apply a shellac sealer then fill the grain.
Thanks

 

[bufbills]

i stained first then applied 4 coats of deft sanding sealer. that filled it well . im going to clear coat this weekend.