There are tools made for this purpose. Here is one example. The hardware store will probably have an assortment of similar items. Here is a link that might be useful: Caulk-Away Tool

Thanks guys! I used plain old joint compound out of a bucket in my original repair. I'll remove the old work and replace with a durabond setting compound as you suggested. I've gotten some skill at skimming joints (I've removed tons of wallpaper in this house and cultivated some skill in skim coating as a result of tearing up the drywall!) so the difficulty in sanding ought not be too much of an issue if I use my best efforts in applying it. I've also been advised to prime with an oil based primer before and after the repair; seems like that would help, too. I had used latex high hiding primer before but see the wisdom of using an oil based primer for this application.

Thanks for the help, Jack! I used latex primer in the original work but see the wisdom in using oil based as you suggest. I've also been advised to go with a durabond setting compound this time instead of the joint compound in a bucket that I used before as it dries much harder and is more resistant to water. Using that in combination with the oil based primer will hopefully give me a durable repair. Thanks again!

I'm a contractor in ny who just installed white painted cabinets for a client.. counter top installer just finished installing... the following day along the entire perimeter of cabinets are now a bright neon yellow color??? trying to find why?? obviously there is some sort of chemical reaction between the silicone and the paint. does anyone have any information on this issue please. I can be reached at 631-433-1614 thank you in advance for. Ed