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Paint Touchups: Learn How to Get the Best Results

A person using a putty knife to smooth out a wall.

Whether it’s a scuff on the living room wall, chipped trim in the hallway, or a scratch on painted cabinets, touch-up paint can breathe new life into your home. But touching up paint requires some know-how to ensure the result blends seamlessly with the original finish. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about paint touchups, from preparation to application and maintenance.

A photo of three small holes in the wall.

How to Touch Up Paint on Walls

STEP 1

Assess the Damage

Before diving in, evaluate the size and nature of the issue

  • Small imperfections (e.g., scuffs, nail holes): These typically require a simple spot repair.
  • Larger areas or mismatched finishes may need more extensive prep or a full repaint.
A person preparing to apply spackle to a wall using a putty knife.
STEP 2

Prepare the Surface

  • Clean the area with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grease.
  • For deeper imperfections like paint chips, fill the area with a lightweight spackle, let it dry, and lightly sand until smooth.
A person holding a small paint brush above an open paint can.
STEP 3

Choose the Right Paint

  • Use leftover paint from the original project, if possible.
  • For best results, ensure the paint matches in color, sheen, and texture.
A birds eye view of a person using a small brush to apply paint to a wall.
STEP 4

Apply the Paint

  • Use a small, high-quality paintbrush, touch-up pen, or roller. For intricate areas, consider a paint applicator for precision.
  • Feather the edges of the touch-up area to blend with the existing paint.

Tips for Touching Up Paint Without It Showing

  • Blend carefully: Use light, overlapping strokes to merge the new paint into the old.
  • Match the finish: Flat and matte paints are easier to touch up than satin or semi-gloss finishes.
  • Practice patience: Apply thin layers and let each coat dry completely before adding more.

How to Touch Up Painted Cabinets or Trim

Cabinets and trim often have a smooth, glossy finish, making touch-ups more challenging. Here’s how to tackle these areas:

  1. Clean the surface thoroughly to remove any grease or residue.
  2. Use a matching touch-up paint pen for small scratches or chips.
  3. For larger areas, apply paint with a fine-bristle brush, smoothing it out as you go.

FAQs: Common Touch-Up Questions

Blending New Paint with Old Paint

Matching touch-up paint with the existing wall can be tricky. Follow these tips:

  • Test the paint in a hidden area first.
  • Use a roller to mimic the original texture.
  • If blending proves difficult, repainting the entire wall may be the best solution.

Special Situations

  • Touching up ceilings in bedrooms: Use a small roller to minimize streaking.
  • Repairing paint chips: Smooth the area with fine-grit sandpaper before applying paint.
  • Spot painting: Focus on the damaged area, then feather out the edges to avoid visible lines.

Final Touches

For all your paint touch-up needs, visit your local Sherwin-Williams store or shop our selection of premium paints and tools online and watch our Painting and Touchup Tips video for a helpful, hands-on guide.