Hide a Scratch in Wood Furniture With a Walnut

Light scratches in wood tables, chairs, and cabinets stand out because the raw wood inside is pale. A walnut — the actual nut — fixes it with its own oil and color.

How to do it

1. Crack a raw walnut and take the meat out.
2. Rub the nut firmly along the scratch, going with the grain, for about a minute.
3. Let the oil sit for a few minutes, then buff with a soft cloth.

The natural oils darken the scratch to match the surrounding finish. It works best on medium-tone woods and light scratches. For deeper damage or dark walnut finishes, a furniture touch-up marker from the hardware store is the better tool — keep two or three shades on hand.