Many refinishers patch deep scratch marks and indentations after sanding and
before any new finish is applied. This author prefers to apply at least one
coat of finish, and then make these repairs, since the final color becomes more
evident, and smudges around the affected area can be cleaned off.
To repair an indentation or scratch, purchase a wax crayon or fill stick of
the same shade as the background or main tone of the wood. Some manufacturers
only offer three choices of color: light, medium, or dark. Since the main idea
is to make the fault blend in and become less noticeable, select the closest
color or a shade darker, and you’ll be happy with the results.
Press the fill stick into the indentation, and immediately wipe across the
repair with a cotton cloth balled into a pad, using a fair amount of pressure.
Repeat if necessary. Zigzag the fill stick across a short section of a longer
scratch, then wipe off the excess, and continue along the scratch until filled.
The second coat of finish may then be applied.
Once the new finish is completely dry, stand back and admire your
re-creation. Resist the temptation to polish your new work of art; most
household polishes contain silicone which only smudges and attracts dirt. Fine
furniture polishes such as Guardsman’s, available at most good hardware stores,
contain no silicone. The best “polish” for the first few months after
refinishing is a slightly damp cotton cloth, followed by drying.
For years to come, the beauty of the wood itself will make its own statement.