Repairing minor scratches or dents in finished wood carvings can be simple with the right techniques. For shallow scratches, start by gently sanding the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper (220-320 grit) to smooth the surface. Follow this by applying a matching wood wax or filler stick to blend the scratch. For deeper scratches or small dents, use a damp cloth and a hot iron to steam the wood fibers back into place—this works especially well on unfinished or lightly finished carvings.

For colored finishes, touch-up markers or diluted wood stain can help disguise imperfections. Always test any product on an inconspicuous area first. If the carving has a glossy finish, lightly buff the repaired spot with furniture polish to restore shine. Prevent future damage by keeping carvings away from direct sunlight and humidity fluctuations. With patience and careful matching, most minor flaws can be made nearly invisible.