How to Get Spray Paint out of Velvet

Spray paint mishaps can force clothing to the back of the closet. When spray paint finds its way onto delicate fabrics like velvet, many people opt to discard the item, because they believe they have no other recourse. Fortunately, you can remove spray paint from velvet, as long as you employ the proper strategies. Know the right materials to use and the proper ways to use them, or you may end up damaging the very surface you are attempting to save.

Things You'll Need

• Olive oil
• Rags
• Turpentine

Instructions

1. Dampen the corner of a clean, cloth rag with olive oil.

2. Lubricate the velvet by wiping the rag against the spray paint.

3. Use a fresh rag to massage the spray paint loose. Wipe in a soft, pushing motion. Do not scrub the velvet, or you may damage the fibers.

4. Dampen the corner of a clean cloth rag with turpentine.

5. Use the rag to massage the velvet, effectively eliminating the olive oil and any remaining paint particles. Wipe with a soft, pushing motion. Wait five to ten minutes for the turpentine to evaporate.

Tips & Warnings

• Turpentine is a tree-based solvent, ideal for removing paint from delicate fabrics. Do not use petroleum-based solvents like mineral spirits, paint thinner, or lacquer thinner, as these may damage the velvet.

• Do not use harsh chemical cleansers, as this may cause the spray paint to melt and bond further to the velvet.

• Do not smoke while working with flammable solvents like turpentine.