forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com

WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Hints and Tips/Questions about modeling => Topic started by: rolanddvi on February 02, 2017, 12:25:07 PM

Title: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: rolanddvi on February 02, 2017, 12:25:07 PM
Hello all,

I am starting the WNW Snip and I used their reference for some of the wooden components, XF-68 NATO Brown. I believe it's way to dark. So my question is what is a good way to strip off the Tamiya paint from the pieces that have been painted?

Thanks,
Mike
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: uncletony on February 02, 2017, 12:34:49 PM
Easy. IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol). Won't affect the plastic in slightest.

This is the best feature of Tamiya Acrylics! They are 100% soluble in IPA and in fact can be "regenerated" after they are dry. I keep palettes of Tamiya colors, long since dried, which I regenerate with a few drops of 91% IPA and in a few seconds they are ready to paint.

(Edit: fixed horrible grammar)
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: uncletony on February 02, 2017, 12:36:27 PM
^^ Yes, RB, is right, Windex (common USA glass cleaner) works great to remove it -- but IPA should be on your bench if you use Tamiya Acrylics.
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: rolanddvi on February 03, 2017, 09:01:33 AM
Thanks Red and Bo. I have plenty of IPA so I will give it a go. Is it OK to put the parts in a bowl and let them soak or should I brush it on?

Many Thanks,
Mike
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: macsporran on February 03, 2017, 09:31:54 AM
Dunk 'n swish  :)
Duncan Who? Sounds like a pornstar!
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: uncletony on February 03, 2017, 10:17:09 AM
Thanks Red and Bo. I have plenty of IPA so I will give it a go. Is it OK to put the parts in a bowl and let them soak or should I brush it on?

I think either of the above, or the technique recommended by RB will work. IPA won't attack the plastic (nor will glass cleaner for that matter). Tamiya paint reliquifies fairly instantaniously in either of these mediums. Bottom line, I think you'll find this is not a difficult or even messy task.
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: rolanddvi on February 03, 2017, 10:18:28 AM
Thanks again guys. Much appreciated.
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: Nigel Jackson on February 03, 2017, 05:09:44 PM
^^ Yes, RB, is right, Windex (common USA glass cleaner) works great to remove it -- but IPA should be on your bench if you use Tamiya Acrylics.

What sort of places sell IPA? Is it hardware/do-it-yourself type stores? Are there any particular brand names to look out for?

Best wishes
Nigel
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: Borsos on February 03, 2017, 11:03:57 PM
In Germany you can buy it from artist suppliers like Kremer pigmente. Probabely the same in the US?
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: uncletony on February 03, 2017, 11:15:26 PM
^^ Yes, RB, is right, Windex (common USA glass cleaner) works great to remove it -- but IPA should be on your bench if you use Tamiya Acrylics.

What sort of places sell IPA? Is it hardware/do-it-yourself type stores? Are there any particular brand names to look out for?

Best wishes
Nigel

AKA "rubbing alcohol" or isopropanol

Here in the US you can get it at any drugstore. Also at the hardware store. It comes in various dilutions, get the strongest you can find. I buy 91%.

Also useful for removing certain adhesives. Great for cleaning the gunk off your keyboard and mousepad.
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: Nigel Jackson on February 04, 2017, 05:31:41 AM
Many thanks, Bo.

Best wishes
Nigel
Title: Re: Removing Tamiya Paint
Post by: nmroberto on February 06, 2017, 06:01:29 AM
Also might want to try Super Clean.  It's a degreaser in a spray bottle sold in auto parts stores and places like Wal-Mart.  It really works well, and fast (an hour or so will do the trick).  Does tend to dry out your hands though.