Auto body repair & detailing: Minor Paint Dilemma, minor scratches, 2007 yaris

Question
I'm a bonehead. I have a new 2007 Yaris Sedan, color: Nautical Blue Metallic (8S6). I saw a hairline scratch about 2 inches wide on the front, so I wanted to use some compound. I used an old sock that was used to apply some to another car last year. The sock had old crusty compound remnants on it. So basically, not only did it hardly remove the scratch, it made a bunch of minor scratches all around the area and has slightly dulled it. To further my idiocy, I didn't to even read that you should test the compound when using it on a metallic surface. Any advice on helping to fix this dilemma and get it bright and shiny? Thanks in advance.

Answer
Don't be so hard on yourself, just learn:)
First, throw away the sock.
Go down to your local Schuck's Auto supply or other Auto Parts chain and get some Meguiar’s SCRATCH X, and use a clean terry cloth rag and go at it.  You'll be forgiven.
Take care,
Notto
AllExpers Detailing Expert