Doors and Windows - Replacing Window Putty and Repainting It

I 'm in the process of scraping the old putty out of the exterior of my wood frame windows and need some info/advice on whether or not I can just strip it out and re-putty the glass, or is there an in-between process that needs to be done.
It came out fairly easily and, as a result, the frames are pretty clean and free of dust and debris. Can I just use a wet rag and wipe the dust and dirt off and go ahead and re-putty or not.

Thanks, Len

Wipe the dirt and dust out with a damp rag, and yu are ready to start reglazing. I would suggest that you use the DAP 33 glazing that comes in the 10 oz. (caulking gun size) tube. It has an applicator on it that makes the job about 3 or 4 times faster than trying to glaze it with a putty knife.

Thanks Lefty, I already have the DAP 33.
One more question. Do I need to prime the wood frame before I paint? It's all cleaned and sanded. Just wasn't sure whether I need to apply anything before the paint goes on.

Len

Prime, then paint.

Ok, one more question. Any tips getting the glazing putty on the frame and glass smoothly or is this just a learned skill through trial and error?
Seems a though no matter how I try the stuff glops all over the place and I end up needing a putty knife to smooth it out anyway.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Len

Don't use it right out of the can.

Take out enough to make a small "ball" and roll it around in your hands. That makes it warm up and get mixed to an even consistancy. You still have to use a putty knife to get it nice and smooth on the sash, but you'll find it will "work" a lot better this way.

Or use the DAP 33 that comes in the 10 OZ. caulking tubes. With a bit of practice, it will virtually eliminate the need for the putty knife.

The trick to a using a putty knife: 1) It should be a stiff blade 2)It must be perfectly clean (dipping in paint thinners helps) and 3) Use a steady firm pressure at the proper angle to smooth the putty.