Finding the right miniature paint remover can be a complex task. Stripping paint comes with so many options, here are the best ones.
When it comes to paint stripping, leave the guess work out of it. Nothing is as important as the product you use. So here’s our curated list of the best products you can use.
Our best miniature paint remover pick: Simple Green
Simple Green is the best product out there when it comes to stripping. It’s safe for plastic and resin, doesn’t cost a fortune, is non-toxic, and smells like root beer.
Ok, that last one can be in the cons column for some, but smell is an important part of stripping miniatures, because some products with a strong smell, apple or lavender namely, stay on the miniature long after you are done stripping.
Second Best Option: 90 Proof Isopropyl Alcohol
Very similar to Simple Green, isopropyl alcohol is safe for plastic and resin and gallons of it won’t break the bank.
The main reason that isopropyl alcohol is second on the list is that it is often out of stock and can be hard to find. This is in part due to a surge of resin 3D Printers which also requires isopropyl alcohol in the curing process.
With time, production will match demand, but at this time, you have to be a savvy shopper.
Isopropyl with a proof lower than 90, 70 being the most common, also somewhat work. It takes a lot more time, and sometimes the primer does not get stripped.
Third Best Option: Ultra Sonic Cleaner
An ultra sonic cleaner is the name of the machine, there are many brands and models available.
There are many reasons why ultra sonic cleaners are third on the list, despite doing a wonderful job as a miniature paint remover.
First is the cost. While it is not outrageously expensive, if you only plan on stripping a model or squad per year, you probably don’t need to buy into this machine
Also, ultra sonic cleaners require a little bit of trial and error, specially if you want to strip plastic miniatures. There’s heat and vibration to control, and no one wants to melt their models.
*No matter what method you use to strip, it’s always a good idea to test each solution at least once on a piece you’re willing to sacrifice. Work in small time increments to make sure your models are not damaged by the stripping process.