Repairing a Scratch in Old Veneer
Jul 12, 2024
If it's a scratch where some wood was removed, then sanding makes sense. This will lower the surface of the surrounding wood until it matches the level of the bottom of the scratch. Now you should have a smooth surface again.
But I would consider my second thought before starting sanding. Sanding is permanent! If it's a dent where the wood was compressed, sanding would not be my choice for repair. Assuming the wood fibers were not damaged during the compression process, I would try the following.
1) Spray distilled water on the surface.
2) Let it set for a few minutes so the water has a little time to be absorbed into the fibers.
3) Use an iron and a clean cloth to heat the area. Cover the area with a clean cloth (to prevent direct metal-to-wood contact). Place the iron over the damp area and move slowly (think small circles) so you don't accidentally leave an iron-shaped imprint on the wood.
4) Don't leave the iron on for too long. You risk burning the wood. Remove the cloth and check often until you get a feel for doing it.
5) Stop ironing when the indentation looks gone. It's even possible that the dent is now higher than the surrounding area.
6) Let it dry. Let it dry. Let it dry.
7) Sand the entire area carefully.
Note step #6. If you sand it while the wood fibers are still wet, you may get a smooth surface. But when the wood dries, the fibers will shrink a little. Then, some areas may sink down again. This should be part of Sanding 101, but I remind you anyway. You might try practicing on some scrap.
And that doesn't look like oak to me either. It looks like a light-colored sapele (aka ribbon mahogany) that has been quarter-sawn. That said, I am guessing that it is a veneer surface instead of solid wood. So, any sanding must be done with extreme care so you do not sand all the way through the veneer.
