Is There a Better Way to Fill Open Wood Grain?

To get a glass-like finish, I apply about seven coats of finish and sand in between. Is there a better way to fill open wood grain?

Richard Jones: Use grain filler, available in both oil-based and water- based versions. Grain filling can be done on the raw wood after dying or staining, or after the first coat of finish, depending on what effect you’re after.

Carol Reed: Use a grain filler first.