How to Strip Paint Off of Plastic & Metal Models
Constructing plastic or metal models is a popular hobby that can supply you with decorations for yourself or thoughtful gifts for others. But even the most skilled model maker can make mistakes when it comes to painting and finishing a model. Also, tastes can change over time, and the paint scheme on an old model may seem outdated. Whatever the reason, stripping paint from a plastic or metal model requires careful attention and the right materials to ensure that no harm comes to the model itself.
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Things You'll Need
- Paint stripper
- Container large enough to hold liquid and the model
- Latex gloves
- Paintbrush or soft cloth
Instructions
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1
Obtain the paint stripper you want to use for your model. Paint stripper is available at many arts and crafts, hardware and retail auto parts stores. Read labels and warnings carefully, as some paint strippers can be extremely hazardous, or are meant to work only on specific types of materials. The references for this article contain some suggestions for good paint strippers to use for plastic and metal models.
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2
Find a container with enough room to hold the paint stripper and the model itself. For smaller models, cups or small bowls will suffice, while larger models may require buckets.
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3
Fill your container with enough paint stripper solution to effectively cover the model. Place the model into the solution -- the model should be completely submerged in paint stripper for most effective use. Let soak for about 48 hours.
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4
Remove the model from the paint stripper, wearing latex gloves to prevent exposure to your skin. Using a soft cloth, wipe the paint away. A toothbrush is an effective tool for getting into grooves or small niches in a model. You can also run the model under water to help remove paint spots.
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Repeat step four multiple times as needed. If the model's paint has been dry for a while, or the model is covered in several layers of paint, you may need to make several attempts. Continue until you are able to rub away all of the old paint.
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Tips & Warnings
Test your chosen paint stripper on an unwanted piece of plastic or metal to be sure the chemicals won't damage the model.
Always take proper precautions, including gloves and possibly face masks, when working with corrosive chemicals. Be sure to thoroughly wash hands, cloths, bowls and other materials that come in contact with the paint stripper.
