Stripping Paint from A Resin Model?

[PaulBradley]

A question for the UAMF massive. If you've been following my Farman build in the Airliners GB, you'll know that the painting did not go well. So now I need to remove that errant paint and repaint.

My question, therefore, is what's the best method for removing acrylic paint from resin parts? Especially clear resin.

[Impisi]

well I never treid it on clear resin, but createx airbrush cleaner does solve dried out acrylic paint, at least in airbrushes but I never used it on a clear resin part. Also Oven Cleaner would work but never used it on clear resin. You are talking about the blue problem, right - may be a very sticki tape can do the job or may be if you freeze it, you then can remove it with just a wooden toothpick

[JamesPerrin]

Can't comment on the clear resin by have used oven cleaner on opaque resin. If you have any of the pouring stubs to hand you could do some tests.

[fredk]

Do not use oven cleaner on the clear resin

[beany]

I've used Dettol with some success as it kind of lifts the paint like a skin rather than dissolves it. At worst you have to scrub at reluctant bits with an old toothbrush. However, I don't know what effect it would have on clear resin, and, I don't know if there is an equivalent over the pond (apparently it has to be Dettol as a brand - other disinfectants don't have the same effect). So, that's probably no help whatsoever then...

[PaulBradley]

Cheers, everyone! No, we can't get Dettol here.

Do not use oven cleaner on the clear resin

If you'll excuse the pun, Fred, that is a good clear-cut warning. Oven cleaner is out. Many thanks for helping me avoid a costly mistake as that is the usual go-to method.

As to the alternatives, I might try freezing it first as Martin suggests - unusual but I don't see that it would do any harm. If that doesn't work, a bath in airbrush cleaner might be on the cards. Unfortunately, I tossed the pour stub for the clear resin weeks ago, so I can't do any tests.

[chrism]

Have you considered deluxe materials brush cleaner. Apply a little and rub with toothbrush. Works wonders on things. So does bicarbonate soda and lemon juice mixed as a paste and applied and brushed. They both get paint off old painted white metal ship parts both non caustic means. Theres also another useful kitchen cleaner that comes in a drum as a solid product. Its for overs and hobs over here its mr Beckman or somethin similar. Will have shufty downstairs later

[fredk]

In this case I'd recommend you either
1. go to a local hardware store and look for a paint & varnish remover in a HDPE bottle. That is likely to be resin/plastic friendly, but even so do not leave it on the model for any longer than absolutely necessary. Limit its time on the clear resin parts.
2 or use Revell's paint remover. Its not very strong but it does eventually work. I've not use it on clear resin but its ok on clear polystyrene parts

[DavidWomby]

I'm not sure about freezing. I have no experience but remember being told once to freeze a plastic model to help crack open the joins. I have visions of the same happening to your lovely resin Farman.

Do you have any spare clear resin from any kit to test fluids on? At least it would be a partial test of the effects on 'a' clear resin albeit not the exact one in your model.

David

[fredk]

A thought I just thunked.
Is the paint acrylic?
If so, its not had time to cure.
Alcohol will soften it and remove it. IPA, Vodka, even beer will do it

[PaulBradley]

So should I soak the model in beer, or myself...?

[PaulBradley]

Hmmm, maybe freezing is out.

The issue with the paint is certainly that it has never properly cured. I was also reading that Simple Green is pretty safe and effective, so I might run by the store on the way home and pick up a bottle. In theory, it shouldn't be too difficult on the whole, but my main concern is that clear resin - I'd hate for it to fog or craze or something. I don't think I have any other kits that have clear resin in them.

[fredk]

Even if the clear resin fogs I do believe you have the knowledge & ability to crash/plunge mould a copy from it

[PaulBradley]

Probably - but it's an awkward fit to start with, so I'd rather not go down that route!

[chrism]

I read in your build thread you had achieved success with this *simple green* product. What is that a kitchen cleaner or a paint product?