How to Fix Wood Finish Damage From Nail Polish Remover on a Desk

Nail polish remover, which is made primarily with the chemical acetone, will also remove wood varnish and stain from a desktop if spilled. The resulting blotches will mar the finish on your desk unless you fix the damage. This typically involves restaining the wood finish. If the damage is minor, such as a few relatively small spots, you can fix the surface quickly with a stain pen. Available at hardware stores, these pens resemble a permanent marker but are loaded with wood stain that flows through an applicator. Larger spills can be fixed by sanding and restaining the area. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Blot the spilled nail polish remover with paper towels as quickly as possible. Do not rub or smear the chemical, which only spreads the damage.

2

Apply the tip of a stain touch-up pen to the damaged desk surface and cover the damage in the direction of the wood grain. Use the pen to draw literally on the desk surface, applying the stain. Add a second coat, if necessary, when the stain dries.

3

Sand larger areas of acetone damage with fine-grit sandpaper. This helps the new stain blend around the edges of the existing finish.

4

Shake the can of matching wood stain vigorously to mix.

5

Apply the stain with a paintbrush in even strokes, moving in the direction of the wood grain. Let dry and apply a second coat if necessary.