How to Remove Model Paint

Building plastic models is a hobby that is enjoyed by millions of people for decades and model paint is an unfortunate circumstance of the hobby. Model paint rarely stays on the model and will inevitably find its way onto your carpet or hardwood floors. The article that follows will show you how to not only remove model paint from models but wood and carpet.

Step 1 - Removing Fresh Paint

Model paint on hardwood floors or carpet really is not that bad. It is easier to remove when the paint is still wet but even dried model paint can be dealt with. On a hardwood floor you simply need to quickly wipe up the paint before it dries. You can then use a sponge dipped in soapy water to remove any residue or slightly set model paint at the edges of the drop.

A carpet is a little more difficult. Blot the area with paper towels or a sponge. This will soak up any excess model paint. The fibers of a carpet act like a sponge and will soak up the model paint. Use a very small amount of nail polish remover and rub it in with a stiff-bristled brush. Work from the inside of the stain to the outside in a circular motion. Rinse the area with clean water and mild detergent. Repeat as needed blotting up the excess liquids between attempts.

Step 2 - Removing Dried Paint

Nail polish remover is nothing more than acetone. This stuff eats through acrylic paint like acid. Nail polish remover, being identical to acetone, is cheaper than actually buying acetone in the hobby store. Dried paint on hardwood is as easy to remove as wet paint. Pour a little nail polish remover onto a sponge and squeeze the sponge to let the nail polish remover drip over the model paint. Allow the remover to work for a few moments and then use the toothbrush to remove the model paint. Tougher and larger stains may require using the steel wool.

Dried model paint on carpets is a bit of an issue and will take several attempts. Pour nail polish remover onto the stain and let it work to loosen the model paint. Blot up the excess liquid then hit the carpet with soapy water and a scrub brush. You may also use an all-natural paint stripper to help the process. If none of this works call a professional.

Step 3 - Removing Model Paint on Models

For small areas dip a cotton swab into the nail polish remover and scrub the area. The paint will soften and you can wipe off with a paper towel. If you want to remove all of the paint then use the nail polish remover and cotton swabs to remove model paint from the crevices and small areas. Fill a container large enough with paint stripper and soak the model for up to two days. Rinse the model off and blot dry.