Removing Tamiya Paint

[rolanddvi]

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

[uncletony]

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)

[uncletony]

^^ 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.

[rolanddvi]

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

[macsporran]

Dunk 'n swish 

Duncan Who? Sounds like a pornstar!

[uncletony]

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.

[rolanddvi]

Thanks again guys. Much appreciated.

[Nigel Jackson]

^^ 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

[Borsos]

In Germany you can buy it from artist suppliers like Kremer pigmente. Probabely the same in the US?

[uncletony]

^^ 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.

[Nigel Jackson]

Many thanks, Bo.

Best wishes
Nigel

[nmroberto]

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.