Can you remove paint from Warhammer models? Yes, you absolutely can! This guide will walk you through the process of how to strip paint from miniatures, allowing you to restore unpainted miniatures or give your old Citadel figures a fresh start. Whether you’ve made a mistake, want to try a new paint scheme, or are refreshing a secondhand find, learning to strip paint from miniatures is a valuable skill for any Warhammer hobbyist.
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Why Strip Paint?
There are several good reasons to strip paint from miniatures. Perhaps your first attempts at painting didn’t turn out as well as you’d hoped, and you want to start fresh. Maybe you acquired some used models that are heavily painted, or even painted with the wrong type of paint. Sometimes, layers of paint can obscure fine details, making the model look clunky. Whatever your reason, removing old paint is a common and achievable goal.
Choosing Your Stripping Agent
The best paint stripper for plastic models is crucial for success. You want something that effectively removes paint without damaging the underlying plastic. For acrylic paint remover for models, there are several safe and effective options. It’s important to use safe paint stripping agents to protect both your models and yourself.
Common Stripping Agents and Their Pros & Cons
| Stripping Agent | How it Works | Pros | Cons | Safety Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) (91% or higher) | Dissolves acrylic paints. | Widely available, relatively inexpensive, evaporates quickly, safe for most plastics. | May require multiple applications for thick paint layers, can dry out hands, strong fumes in enclosed spaces. | Use in a well-ventilated area, wear gloves. |
| Brake Cleaner | A strong solvent that breaks down paint layers. | Very effective, often works quickly, good for stubborn paint. | Can damage certain plastics with prolonged exposure, strong fumes, can be messy. | Crucial: Test on a small, hidden area first. Use in a very well-ventilated area, wear gloves and eye protection. |
| Simple Green | A biodegradable cleaner that can lift acrylic paints. | Generally safe for plastics, environmentally friendly, less harsh fumes. | Slower acting, may require soaking and scrubbing, less effective on primer or enamel paints. | Wear gloves, use in a well-ventilated area. |
| Acetone | A powerful solvent that dissolves many types of paint. | Very effective, works quickly. | Warning: Acetone can melt or warp certain types of plastic. It is generally NOT recommended for most plastic miniatures. | Extreme Caution: Use only if you are certain about the plastic type and have tested it. Wear gloves and eye protection, use in a very well-ventilated area. |
| Citrus-Based Strippers | Uses natural solvents derived from citrus fruits. | Often considered a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative to harsh chemicals, good for acrylics. | Can take longer to work, may require scrubbing, efficacy can vary. | Follow product instructions, wear gloves, use in a well-ventilated area. |
The Stripping Process: Step-by-Step
The method you choose will depend on the type of paint and the stripping agent you use. The general principle is to apply the agent, let it work, and then gently remove the loosened paint.
Method 1: The Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) Soak
This is a popular and often the safest method for acrylic paint remover for models.
Materials Needed:
- 91% or higher Isopropyl Alcohol
- Small container or jar (glass or plastic, depending on your comfort level with IPA)
- Old toothbrush or stiff brush
- Paper towels or old rags
- Gloves
- Safety glasses (optional but recommended)
- Toothpicks or hobby knife for stubborn bits
Steps:
- Preparation: Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated. Put on your gloves.
- Submerge: Place your painted models into the container. Pour enough IPA to fully submerge the miniatures. Avoid overfilling the container.
- Soaking Time: Let the models soak. For freshly applied acrylics, this might only be 15-30 minutes. For older, thicker layers, you might need to soak them for several hours or even overnight. You’ll notice the paint starting to bubble or loosen.
- Gentle Scrubbing: After soaking, take a model out. Use your old toothbrush to gently scrub away the loosened paint. The paint should start to come off relatively easily. You can also use toothpicks or the edge of a hobby knife to carefully pick away paint from crevices.
- Rinse and Repeat: Rinse the model under cool water and inspect it. If paint remains, you can re-submerge it for another soak, or focus on scrubbing the remaining areas. Sometimes, a second or third short soak can help with stubborn patches.
- Clean Up: Once all the paint is removed, give the model a good rinse with water. You can use a bit of dish soap to remove any residue.
- Drying: Pat the models dry with paper towels or let them air dry.
Tips for IPA Stripping:
- Don’t rush: Patience is key. If the paint isn’t coming off easily, a longer soak is usually better than aggressive scrubbing, which can damage details.
- Targeted removal: For small areas or specific details, you can dip a cotton swab or a detailing brush paint removal tool into IPA and carefully scrub only the painted sections.
- Multiple thin layers: If a model has many thick layers of paint, it might be more effective to do several shorter soaks rather than one very long one.
Method 2: Brake Cleaner for Tougher Jobs
Brake cleaner is a more potent option, but it comes with greater risks. It’s a good choice for removing primer or multiple layers of different paint types, but extreme caution is advised.
Materials Needed:
- Automotive Brake Cleaner (ensure it’s suitable for plastics, though caution is still advised)
- Glass or metal container (do NOT use plastic that isn’t specifically rated for brake cleaner)
- Old toothbrush or stiff brush
- Paper towels or old rags
- Heavy-duty chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile is often insufficient; butyl rubber is better)
- Safety glasses or goggles
- Respirator mask (highly recommended due to fumes)
- Water for rinsing
Steps:
- Extreme Ventilation: Work outdoors or in a garage with the door wide open. Ensure there’s no open flame or sparks nearby.
- Wear Protective Gear: Put on your heavy-duty gloves, safety glasses, and respirator.
- Submerge (Briefly): Place the model in the container. Spray a small amount of brake cleaner onto the model, or submerge it briefly (start with just a few minutes).
- Observe and Scrub: Watch the paint. Brake cleaner often works very quickly. After a short period, use your toothbrush to gently scrub.
- Rinse and Repeat (Cautiously): Rinse the model thoroughly with water. If paint remains, repeat the brief soaking and scrubbing process. DO NOT OVER-SOAK. Prolonged exposure can damage plastic.
- Thorough Cleaning: Once the paint is removed, wash the model with soap and water to remove any brake cleaner residue.
- Drying: Allow the model to dry completely.
Warnings for Brake Cleaner:
- Plastic Damage: Brake cleaner is a powerful solvent. It can melt, warp, or make plastic brittle. Always test on a spare sprue or an inconspicuous area first.
- Fumes: The fumes are strong and potentially harmful. A respirator is essential for safe use.
- Skin Contact: Avoid skin contact at all costs.
Method 3: Simple Green for a Gentler Approach
Simple Green is a widely available cleaner that many hobbyists use as a safer alternative for cleaning spray painted models. It’s less aggressive than IPA or brake cleaner.
Materials Needed:
- Concentrated Simple Green (or diluted according to instructions)
- Warm water
- Container
- Old toothbrush
- Gloves
- Paper towels
Steps:
- Dilute (if necessary): Follow the instructions on the Simple Green bottle. For miniatures, a stronger dilution might be needed.
- Soak: Submerge the models in the Simple Green solution.
- Patience: Simple Green takes longer to work than stronger solvents. Let the models soak for several hours, or even 24 hours, checking periodically.
- Scrub and Rinse: Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away the loosened paint. Rinse the model thoroughly under running water.
- Repeat if Needed: For stubborn paint, you may need to repeat the soaking and scrubbing process.
- Clean and Dry: Wash with soap and water and let the model dry.
Dealing with Different Paint Types
The type of paint used will affect how easily it can be stripped.
Acrylic Paints
Acrylic paints (like those from Citadel, Vallejo, Army Painter, etc.) are the most common for miniatures. They are water-based but form a durable layer once dry. IPA is generally the most effective and safest acrylic paint remover for models.
Enamel Paints
Enamel paints are less common for miniatures nowadays but can be found on older models. They are oil-based and require stronger solvents like mineral spirits or specific enamel paint removers. Extreme caution is advised, as these solvents can also damage plastic. Always test first.
Spray Paints and Primers
Spray paints and primers can be tougher to remove, especially if applied thickly. IPA can often remove acrylic spray paints with a bit more soaking and scrubbing. For primers, especially older, tougher ones, you might need to resort to more aggressive methods like brake cleaner, but remember the risks involved.
Tackling Stubborn Paint and Detail Work
Sometimes, paint gets into every nook and cranny, and you need to be precise.
Using a Detailing Brush for Paint Removal
For those hard-to-reach areas or delicate details, a detailing brush paint removal technique is invaluable.
- Dip and Dab: Dip the tip of an old, fine-tipped brush into your chosen stripper (IPA is usually best for this).
- Targeted Application: Gently apply the IPA directly to the painted area you want to clean.
- Gentle Agitation: Use the brush bristles to gently agitate the paint. You should see it start to loosen.
- Wipe Away: Use a paper towel or cotton swab to wipe away the loosened paint.
- Repeat: Repeat the process as needed, being careful not to scrub too hard and damage the plastic or any details you want to keep.
Toothpicks and Sculpting Tools
Toothpicks are excellent for picking paint out of small crevices. A hobby knife or sculpting tools can also be used, but with extreme care not to gouge the plastic.
Important Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount when dealing with paint strippers.
- Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors or in a garage with the door open.
- Gloves: Wear appropriate gloves. Nitrile gloves offer some protection, but for stronger solvents like brake cleaner, butyl rubber gloves are a better choice.
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles are essential to protect your eyes from splashes and fumes.
- Respirator: For stronger chemicals like brake cleaner, a respirator with organic vapor cartridges is highly recommended.
- Fire Hazards: Many solvents are flammable. Avoid open flames, sparks, and smoking while working.
- Test First: Always test your stripper on a spare piece of plastic or an inconspicuous area of the model before committing to a full strip.
After Stripping: Preparation for Repainting
Once your model is clean, it’s essential to prepare it for its new coat of paint.
Cleaning and Rinsing
After removing all the paint, give your model a thorough rinse with plain water. You can also use a soft brush and a little dish soap to remove any residue from the stripping agent.
Inspecting for Damage
While stripping, take the opportunity to inspect your model for any accidental damage. Small nicks or scratches can often be repaired with a little filler or putty.
Re-priming Painted Models
Re-priming painted models is a critical step after stripping. This creates a fresh, uniform surface for your new paint job and helps seal the plastic.
- Ensure Dryness: Make sure the model is completely dry before priming.
- Choose Your Primer: Select a primer suitable for miniatures. Black, white, or grey primers are common choices.
- Apply Thin Coats: Apply primer in thin, even coats. Avoid thick, gloopy layers that will obscure detail. Airbrushing often provides the smoothest finish, but spray cans can also work well if used correctly.
- Allow to Dry: Let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before you start painting.
Restoring Unpainted Miniatures
Sometimes, you might just want to clean up old, unpainted miniatures that have accumulated dust or grime. A gentle wash with warm, soapy water and an old toothbrush is usually sufficient for this. Avoid harsh chemicals unless absolutely necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the safest way to strip paint from plastic miniatures?
The safest and most common method is using 91% or higher Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA). It’s effective on acrylic paints and generally does not damage plastic with reasonable exposure times.
Can I use nail polish remover to strip paint?
Nail polish remover often contains acetone, which is a very aggressive solvent. While it can remove paint, it is highly likely to melt or warp plastic miniatures. It’s best to avoid it.
How long should I soak Warhammer miniatures?
Soaking times vary. For acrylics and IPA, start with 15-30 minutes and check. Stubborn layers might need several hours or overnight. For more aggressive solvents like brake cleaner, soak only for a few minutes at a time, as they can damage the plastic quickly.
Will stripping damage the details on my models?
If done carefully with appropriate strippers and gentle scrubbing, stripping should not significantly damage the details. However, aggressive scrubbing or prolonged exposure to harsh solvents can wear down fine details. Patience is key.
My model is made of resin. Can I use the same methods?
Resin models can be more sensitive to certain solvents than plastic. IPA is usually safe, but always test on a small area first. Avoid stronger solvents like brake cleaner or acetone, as they are more likely to damage resin.
How do I know if the paint is completely removed?
Once stripped and rinsed, hold the model up to a light. You should see the natural color of the plastic. If any paint residue remains, it will usually appear as a dull film or color.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently strip paint from your Warhammer models, giving them a new lease on life and opening up a world of creative possibilities for your miniature collection.