Best way to remove paint and sealant from models

[Eques]

I have a few models from my early days that I would like to strip back to the metal and repaint.

Any processes/products for doing that?

Thanks

[Jhykronos]

It depends on the makeup of your paint and sealant. Sometimes you can get good results putting the figures in boiling water (also works well for removing base flocking from metal bases). Otherwise, you probably would need to soak the figures over a night or two in pine-sol or acetone, then rinse thoroughly. Either way, expect to then have to work each figure over with a firm-bristled brush to clean them completely.

[titanu]

Just Google 'remove paint for wargames figures' and you will get dozens of results. You will need to clean the gunk off after soaking. The best brush to use are a pack of cheap tooth brushes.

On this topic I use PVA glue as this is easily removed with boiling water should you ever need to remove the figures.

[ravenflight]

I have a few models from my early days that I would like to strip back to the metal and repaint.

Any processes/products for doing that?

Thanks

Don't under-estimate the power of an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner either. I use one on bare metal... I'm sure it would work on painted lead too. Maybe after you've done the 'acetone/scrub brush/blow torch/thermal detonator' route, it might take off anything that is 'just hanging on'

[Eques]

On this topic I use PVA glue as this is easily removed with boiling water should you ever need to remove the figures.

Thanks.

Does that bond them OK to the base? Mine sometimes even come off when I use superglue!

[philqw78]

IMO PVA is better than superglue for basing.

[gozerius]

Never had to remove paint from figures, but I use a water based craft glue for basing. It has a bit of flex to it when dry, which seems to absorb the inevitable shock of being dropped on the table. Crazy glue dries too brittle. Carpenter's glue dries too brittle as well.

[Eques]

It depends on the makeup of your paint and sealant. Sometimes you can get good results putting the figures in boiling water (also works well for removing base flocking from metal bases). Otherwise, you probably would need to soak the figures over a night or two in pine-sol or acetone, then rinse thoroughly. Either way, expect to then have to work each figure over with a firm-bristled brush to clean them completely.

Acrylic paint (GW) with Vallejo spray on varnish.

Is Pine-sol a product?

Thanks

[hazelbark]

Is Pine-sol a product?

Yes, but not from your usually game store.

http://www.pinesol.com/

[zoltan]

I use neat Simple Green, all purpose non toxic household cleaner. http://Www.simplegreen.com
Looks like a Californian product.

Cut figures off bases, submerge in simple green for a day or so, scrub figure with tooth brush to remove residual bits of paint within nooks and crannies. Very easy.

[AlanCutner]

Nail varnish remover works a treat.

[zoltan]

Nail varnish remover works a treat.

Not something I usually have in my make up kit.