Assessing the Damage

Identify your needs

Not all wood damage is equal. Run your fingernail across the scratch. If your nail does not catch, the damage is surface-level and easily fixed with a touch-up pen or wax stick. If your nail catches, the scratch has penetrated the finish and into the wood fibres. If the scratch exposes raw, lighter wood, you have a deep gouge that requires filler. Never use heavy-duty wood putty for thin scratches; it creates a textured mess that is difficult to sand later. For deep gouges, choose a filler that is one shade lighter than the wood, as you can always darken it with a stain pen later. Preparation is vital: always remove wax or oil buildup with a damp cloth and mild soap before applying any product to ensure long-term adhesion.