How to Repair a Deeply Scratched Flute
Flute scratches are common — whether from stands, jewellery, school bags or accidental knocks. Light surface scratches are mostly cosmetic, but deep scratches can be worrying because they may affect the finish, expose the underlying metal or make the instrument feel rough under the fingers. At Woodwind London, we repair everything from minor cosmetic marks to full body re-polishing, and the good news is: most deep scratches can be improved or fully restored by a technician.
Here’s what you need to know before attempting any repairs.
1. Don’t try to polish the scratch yourself
Household metal polish, silver cloths or abrasive cleaners can remove plating, make the damage worse, or create cloudy patches. Flute plating — especially silver plate — is extremely thin and must be handled by a specialist.
2. Assess the depth of the scratch
Deep scratches usually:
Catch your fingernail
Look darker or deeper than surrounding marks
Interrupt reflections in the metal
Feel rough to the touch
If this describes your scratch, it requires controlled professional work.
3. Professional repair options
At Woodwind London, we usually repair deep scratches using one of the following:
• Fine abrasive smoothing
Very carefully removing the raised edges of the scratch without cutting through the plating.
• Professional buffing
Restores shine and blends the repaired area into the rest of the body.
• Spot re-finishing or re-plating
Used when the scratch has penetrated the plating. This gives the most seamless result.
• Complete body polish
Ideal for flutes with widespread wear or tarnish.
4. When to repair a deep scratch
Repair is recommended if the scratch:
Is visible from a distance
Feels rough under the hands
Is on the headjoint (very visible in performance)
Has exposed the brass layer below
Affects the instrument’s resale value
5. Bring it to a specialist
Deep scratch repair requires precision tools, polishing compounds and years of experience. Bring your flute to Woodwind London in Muswell Hill for a professional assessment — we’ll guide you on the best and most cost-effective solution.
