How to Fix Paint Imperfections Without Matching Paint

Sand the area lightly with a fine grit sandpaper if a patching compound was used and is causing the imperfection. Sand just enough to smooth out any bumps or imperfections on the patched area.

Paint a thin coat of latex primer over the patching compound, if applicable. Compound absorbs paint if primer is not applied first, which can result in poor color matching.

Tape off light switches, plug outlets and molding on the wall that contains the imperfection. Apply painter's tape along the ceiling line where it meets the wall and along the corners where the wall joins with the next wall.

Use a paint roller to paint the entire wall with an eggshell or semigloss paint. These paints have a slightly glossy finish that reflects light and disguises minor imperfections, while also making any small differences between the color on the other walls less noticeable. Avoid high gloss paints, as these make imperfections more noticeable.

Allow the paint to dry for four to six hours. Apply a second coat, if necessary, to create a smooth, even-colored finish. A second coat isn't always necessary when painting over a similar color of paint.

Remove the painter's tape from the walls and molding after the final coat of paint dries.