How to Remove Faux Stained Glass Paint

Get ready for a new design

Faux stained glass paint is a durable, translucent paint designed to make clear glass look like stained glass when colorful designs are applied to it. One of the chief advantages of glass staining paint is that you can change your stained glass design periodically if you like, provided you can cleanly remove the old paint. Though stained glass paints come in different formulas (with some more durable and difficult to remove than others), use of a straight razor and heavy-duty paint remover will most likely be enough to remove even the toughest kinds.

Things You'll Need

• Hand soap or dish soap
• Straight razor blade
• Protective disposable gloves
• Gel paint remover
• Disposable paint brushes
• Damp rag

Instructions

1. Lay the glass horizontally, if possible, so the paint thinner will be assisted by gravity after you apply it and will be more effective.

2. Wash the glass in soap and water, then dry.

3. Remove any parts of the paint already cracking or peeling using the plastic scraper. Use strong, vigorous strokes to help loosen up the paint. Brush away loose chunks as you go.

4. Use the razor blade to remove some of the more stuck-on paint. Scrape slowly and away from your body, keeping the fingers of your other hand well out of the way. Use short strokes to concentrate the force as you scrape, focusing on tiny sections at a time. You may be able to remove all the paint this way; if not, go on to the next step.

5. Coat the remaining paint in gel remover using the disposable brushes.

6. Let the thinner soak in. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for ideal setting time, as this will give the thinner time to start dissolving the paint effectively before you scrape again.

7. Put on your protective gloves; paint thinner can burn hands and you will likely get it on your fingers.

8. Scrape the softened paint off the glass using the razor blade. It will be gooey and putty-like, so use the rag to wipe off the razor frequently, keeping its edge clear and more effective.

9. Repeat applications of thinner and scraping as needed to remove all paint.