Suggestions on "Removing" Dents in Wood

Bill Tindall:

I use a soldering iron and a thick absorbent rag. Wet rag, apply rag to dent, apply soldering iron to rag and make steam, lots of steam. It will work so long as grain is not torn. It is quite rewarding to watch. What happens is that the steam softens (plasticizes) the cellulose in the wood. In this softened state the wood can relax back to its pre-dented state. Wait for it to dry before sanding.

Don Henthorn:

A regular iron for ironing clothes will do also.

Stephen Shepherd in Utah:

Use a smooth textured cloth or it may leave an imprint in the surface. Keep the moisture localized to the dent and apply heat only where necessary.

Rod Cole:

I find that frequently, all you need to do is put a small amount of hot water on the ding, maybe a couple of times, but without the bother of an iron.

Bill Tindall:

An advantage of the soldering iron, flat iron, or even edge bander is quicker drying after treatment. The wood is reasonably dry after steaming and it can be sanded in an hour or two. I gather a 1/4 inch thickness of soggy rag, apply rag and heat and leave the heat on till the rag is nearly dry. This leaves the wood nearly dry, and warm to enhance further drying. Wife's hair dryer get called on to finish drying when the rush is on. Of course the "rush" is probably where the dent came from to begin with.