How to Mix Color Powder to Repair a Wood Scratch

A scratch is different than a gouge.

There are a number of methods you can use to touch up scratches in a wood furniture finish. The method you choose will depend largely on how significant the scratch is (deep, wide and long). Keep in mind that there is a big difference between a scratch and a gouge. Read more to learn how to mix color powder to repair a wood scratch.

Things You'll Need

• Proper lighting
• Padding Lacquer
• Padding Lacquer Solvent
• Blending Powders
• Artist's Brushes
• Steel Wool

Instructions

How to Mix Color Powder to Repair a Wood Scratch

1. Position yourself and the piece of furniture you will be handling under a strong light source. This is imperative and cannot be stressed enough. Without light that is as close to natural daylight as possible (and directly over the work surface), individual results may vary.

2. Use finely ground powders that are soluble in padding lacquer to cover or fill scratches. Apply Blending Powders to achieve desired color. (Powders can be inter-mixed.) Be sure to match the background color of the finish where the scratch is located. Do not match the grain color.

3. Add powder(s)to a small amount of padding lacquer. The powders should readily dissolve. Mix well. Some colors dissolve less easily than others.

4. Apply padding lacquer to scratch using a fine artist's brush. Let dry overnight.

5. Examine the overall color and appearance.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to connect the grain lines with the surrounding grain. Feather in lines to soften sharp edges made by the brush.

• It is best to apply some straight (un-tinted) padding lacquer to the painted grain lines.

• Do not rub too hard or you may remove grain lines previously painted in.