How to Remove Paint From Scissors

Scissors and paint are supplies required for hundreds of craft projects and home improvement adventures. Paint leaves its mark on everything, including your favorite pair of shears. The gunky build-up happens faster than we can blink, thanks to our daily dependence on these handy, dual-bladed tools. The path to a clean pair of scissors starts here with several easy solutions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Soak the scissor blades in hot, soapy water. This is the easiest and cheapest approach to removing the paint, but it may not be completely effective. You will probably have to try this step first, then move on to a harsher product to get the paint off entirely.
2. Pour undiluted distilled white vinegar on the blades. Allow the vinegar to sit for a minute. Wipe the paint away with a heavy cloth. Rinse with water.
3. Purchase a bottle of rubbing alcohol and allow the scissor blades to soak for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water. You may wish to buy scented alcohol, such as mint or lemon, to leave a pleasant odor on the scissors.
4. Run very hot water over the paint to loosen its grip on the scissors. Chip at the paint with a fingernail, fork blade, knife or letter opener when the temperature has cooled on the blades.
5. Repeat your method for complete paint removal. Paint is tricky and sticky and probably won't come off immediately. You will have to repeat these steps for the best results.

Tips & Warnings

• Treat these steps as individual solutions to removing paint from scissors. For example, don't dip the blades in vinegar and then immediately soak them in alcohol.
• If you choose to soak metal scissor blades to remove paint, do not leave them in liquid too long, or you will risk rusting the metal. Dry them thoroughly when you remove them from water.

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