[header] How to stain wood trim [title] Fill in any nail holes or imperfections in the wood with wood filler. [step] You will want to use a tinted filler the same color of the stain you will use. Scrape excess filler off the wood with a putty knife. 
Allow to dry thoroughly according to the package instructions. [title] Sand the patched areas with 220-grit sandpaper until smooth.