What is the appropriate action to take if a paint application appears uneven?

When a paint application appears uneven, lightly sanding and repainting is considered the most effective approach to achieve a smooth, even finish. This method allows for the original imperfections to be smoothed out, which helps the new layer of paint adhere properly and creates a uniform appearance. Sanding helps to eliminate any bumps or ridges that may have occurred during the initial application, and it prepares the surface for the additional coat of paint, ensuring better adhesion and a more professional look.

By repainting after sanding, any issues from the first application can be rectified, allowing the new paint to cover evenly. This technique also assists in blending the new paint seamlessly with the surrounding area, which is especially important in decorative work where aesthetics are a priority. It delivers a high-quality finish that will be visually appealing and durable once dried.

The other options do not effectively address the problem of unevenness: drying completely without action may leave the imperfections visible, patching up with touch-up paint can lead to mismatched colors and may not resolve the original unevenness, and applying a sealant does not fix or camouflage unevenness effectively. Therefore, properly sanding and repainting is the recommended action to ensure a satisfactory and professional outcome.