The technique of filling consists of inserting a filling or plug in a stone to fill a hole. The trick is to find a stone plug that meets the same characteristics as the original - meaning the same density, grain and colour. Once fitted in place, the plug is sculpted - in the case of a sculpture for instance - to render its adjustment to the whole piece. It must conform to the original piece, and respect its proportions, style and type of cut. Finally - if appropriate - it will be antiqued or given a special patina to make it practically invisible.

The technique of Dutchman repair applies to small holes or missing pieces of stone, such as the tip of a nose or eyebrow or earlobe. This method consists of applying, once cleaned, a composite material equivalent to the original stone and modeling it to render its original form. Note that the added material must never be harder than the original stone. Like the technique of filling, a Dutchman repair must conform to the original piece, and respect the proportions, style and character of the original. It too may be antiqued or receive a patina in order to harmonize it with the whole piece being restored.