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How to Get a Paint Scuff off Wood Furniture

Art Corvelay

Wood furniture is an investment and you want to care for it to keep it in pristine condition. However, sometimes when moving or during home improvement projects, wood furniture can accidentally become scuffed with paint. There is no need to panic and discard the furniture.

Paint scuffs on wood furniture can be removed using common household items.

Paint scuffs can be removed with a few common household items.

Tip

Read the back of the paint can to determine if the paint scuff comes from water- or oil-based paint.

Removing Water-Based Paint

  1. Test a small section of wood in an inconspicuous spot using soap and water. If the wood appears unharmed, proceed. If it appears discolored or damaged in any way, stop and consult a furniture repair professional.

  2. Scrub the paint off gently using a damp sponge. Water-based paint should come right off.

  3. Polish the entire piece with furniture polish to restore shine after removing all the paint.

Removing Oil-Based Paint

  1. Dab a cloth in boiled linseed oil. Test the oil in an inconspicuous spot. If the wood appears unharmed, proceed. If it appears discolored or damaged in any way, stop and consult a furniture repair professional

  2. Apply the cloth to the affected spot and let it soak for several minutes until the paint is softened.

  3. Scrape the softened paint with a putty knife. Work carefully and gently.

  4. Rub the scuff with more linseed oil in the cloth, working with the grain, to remove any remaining paint remnants.

  5. Polish the entire piece with furniture polish to restore shine after removing all the paint.

  6. Polish the entire piece with furniture polish to restore shine after removing all the paint.

The Drip Cap

  • Wood furniture is an investment and you want to care for it to keep it in pristine condition.
  • If the wood appears unharmed, proceed.
  • Polish the entire piece with furniture polish to restore shine after removing all the paint.
  • Scrape the softened paint with a putty knife.