Cover the Scratch

• 1). Mix 3 teaspoons of instant coffee with 2 ounces of water in a measuring cup to conceal dark or black scratches. Stir until pasty.
  
  
• 2). Clean on and around the scratch with wood cleaner to remove any dirt and dust. Let dry. Apply the instant coffee paste to the scratch and let sit for 60 to 90 minutes.
  
  
• 3). Buff over the scratch with a clean cloth lightly dampened with wood cleaner. The scratch will now be concealed from sight.
  
  

Repair the Scratch

• 1). Clean over the scratch thoroughly with a wood cleaner and clean cloth if the scratch is not dark or black. Allow it to dry.
  
  
• 2). Sand out with 240-grit sandpaper, using a gentle motion. Try to keep the sandpaper confined to the scratch so as not to damage the rest of the painted wood.
  
  
• 3). Dislodge the sawdust with steel wool. Take up any stray debris with a cloth.
  
  
• 4). Paint only the scratch with a paintbrush, using a matching paint. Allow to dry for three to four hours, or as long as recommended by the manufacturer.