How to strip paint from your miniatures. A Complete Guide

How to Strip Paint from Miniatures: A Complete Guide for Beginners and Pros

Stripping paint from miniatures might seem like a daunting task, especially if you're new to the hobby. Whether you're looking to repaint an old model, fix a mistake, or start over completely, removing paint is sometimes necessary. The good news? It's easier than you think, and with the right tools and techniques, you can safely strip paint from plastic, metal, and resin miniatures without damaging the model itself. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process step by step, so you can confidently restore your miniatures to their bare, unpainted glory. If you want to practice I suggest using the little green/tan army men from the dollar store or wherever slap some cheap craft pain on them and try stripping it off later that day or the next day. I also us them when testing out color schemes or combos if I don’t have any other models ready to go.

Why Strip Paint from Miniatures?

Before diving into the how, let’s discuss the why. Stripping paint is useful when:

• Old paint jobs: If you bought used miniatures or painted them years ago and your skills have improved, you might want a clean slate to apply new techniques.

• Fixing mistakes: We all make mistakes during painting. Rather than trying to paint over them, stripping the paint is often a cleaner solution.

• Switching armies or themes: Maybe you've changed your mind about your army’s color scheme. Stripping the old paint lets you start fresh.

What You’ll Need to Strip Paint from Miniatures

The key to successfully removing paint from miniatures lies in using the right materials. Here are the basic items you'll need:

1. Paint Stripper:
   There are a few options depending on the material of your miniature:

   • Isopropyl Alcohol (90-99%): Great for stripping acrylic paints from plastic miniatures.

   • Simple Green: A non-toxic option that’s popular among hobbyists.

   • Dettol: An antiseptic that works well on metal miniatures and also handles plastic carefully.

   • LA’s Totally Awesome: A versatile, strong cleaner often used for stripping paint on different surfaces.

   • Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover: Ideal for metal miniatures but avoid using it on plastic as it can cause warping.

2. Old Toothbrush:
   You'll need this to scrub off the softened paint. Make sure it's one you don’t plan on using for anything else!

3. Plastic Container:
   A container or tub to soak your miniatures in the chosen paint stripper.

4. Gloves:
   Some paint strippers can be harsh on the skin. Wearing gloves protects your hands during the process.

5. Paper Towels or Rags:
   To dry your miniatures after stripping the paint.

6. A Well-Ventilated Area:
   Some chemicals have strong fumes, so make sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area or outside.

How to Strip Paint from Plastic Miniatures

Plastic miniatures are the most common in wargaming and miniature painting, but they're also delicate. You need to be careful when stripping paint to avoid damaging them.

1. Choose Your Stripper:
   Isopropyl alcohol is a safe and effective choice for plastic miniatures. Alternatively, Simple Green works well and is non-toxic.

2. Soak the Miniature:
   Place the miniature in your plastic container and submerge it in isopropyl alcohol or Simple Green. Let it soak for at least 12-24 hours. The longer the soak, the easier the paint will come off. You can leave it in for a couple of days without harming the plastic.

3. Scrub the Paint Off:
   After the soak, use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away the softened paint. Be careful around fine details to avoid damaging the miniature. The paint should start coming off with minimal effort.

4. Rinse and Dry:
   Once the paint is removed, rinse the miniature in water to remove any remaining paint stripper. Dry the miniature using a paper towel or let it air dry.

5. Repeat if Necessary:
   If any stubborn paint remains, you can soak and scrub the miniature again. Patience is key!

How to Strip Paint from Metal Miniatures

Metal miniatures are more durable than plastic ones, so you have more options when it comes to paint strippers.

1. Choose Your Stripper:
   For metal miniatures, Dettol or acetone-free nail polish remover are effective choices. Metal models can handle stronger solvents, so you don’t have to worry about damage.

2. Soak the Miniature:
   Submerge the metal miniature in your chosen solution and let it sit for at least 12-24 hours. Dettol is a great option because it’s effective, and you don’t need to worry about fumes or toxic chemicals.

3. Scrub the Paint:
   After soaking, take your old toothbrush and scrub the paint off. Since metal miniatures are tougher, you can apply a bit more pressure without worrying about damage.

4. Rinse and Dry:
   Once the paint is off, rinse the miniature thoroughly with water. Dry it with a rag or paper towel.

5. Polish the Model:
   Metal miniatures can sometimes get a bit of residue from the paint stripper. If necessary, you can use a bit of steel wool or a polishing cloth to restore the miniature’s shine.

How to Strip Paint from Resin Miniatures

Resin miniatures are more fragile than plastic or metal, so you need to be extra careful when stripping paint from them.

1. Choose a Gentle Stripper:
   Simple Green or isopropyl alcohol is your best bet for resin models. Avoid anything too harsh like acetone, as it can warp or damage resin.

2. Soak the Miniature:
   Soak the resin miniature in Simple Green for 12-24 hours. Resin can be delicate, so it’s better to err on the side of caution and use a longer soak time if needed.

3. Gently Scrub:
   Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the resin miniature. Don’t apply too much pressure, as resin is prone to breaking.

4. Rinse and Dry:
   After scrubbing, rinse the miniature with water and allow it to dry. Be careful not to handle it too roughly, as resin can be brittle.

Tips for Stripping Paint Safely and Effectively

• Work in small batches: If you have a lot of miniatures to strip, work on a few at a time. This helps you avoid mistakes and makes the process more manageable.

• Don’t rush it: Stripping paint is a process that requires patience. The longer you let the miniatures soak, the easier it will be to remove the paint.

• Test on a spare model: If you’re unsure how a paint stripper will affect your miniature, test it on a spare model or part before using it on your prized figures.

• Handle with care: Even though metal miniatures are durable, always handle them gently to avoid damaging fine details.

Final Thoughts

Stripping paint from miniatures can be an intimidating process at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s straightforward and even a bit satisfying. Whether you're looking to redo an old paint job or give new life to a pre-painted miniature, stripping paint is a valuable skill to have in your hobby toolkit. Just be patient, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different methods. Your miniatures will be clean and ready for a fresh coat of paint in no time!

Related Articles:

• How to Thin Acrylic Paints for Miniature Painting

FAQs

1. Can I strip paint from plastic miniatures without damaging them?
   Yes! Using gentle solutions like isopropyl alcohol or Simple Green ensures you won’t damage your plastic miniatures.

2. How long should I soak miniatures in a paint stripper?
   Typically, 12-24 hours is enough, but some paints may require longer soaking.

What should I avoid when stripping paint from resin miniatures?
Avoid using harsh chemicals like acetone or anything too abrasive. Stick with gentle strippers like Simple Green.