How to Remove Spray Paint From Brass
Spray painting generates an attractive finish, free from unsightly roller marks and brushstrokes. Unfortunately, this application technique also leads to over-spray stains on adjacent surfaces. Over-aggressive removal techniques can scar sensitive surfaces, such as wood and fiberglass.
Things You Will Need
- Plastic putty knife
- Drop cloths
- Paint-stripping solvent
- 2- to 3-inch natural-bristled paintbrush
- 80-grit sandpaper
- Rags
- Sponge
- Dish soap
- Towels
- Respirator
Fortunately, if you need to remove spray paint from brass, you're in luck, as brass allows for relatively aggressive removal techniques. Choose the proper tools and employ them in the correct manner, or you may end up with unforeseen consequences.
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Scrape as much spray paint from the brass as possible, using a plastic putty knife.
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Apply paint-stripping solvent to remaining spray paint on the brass, using your natural-bristled brush. Allow five minutes for the solvent to break down the spray paint adhesives.
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Remove the remaining loosened spray paint, using 80-grit sandpaper. Use dry rags to clean excess solvent.
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Use sponge to wash the brass with dish soap. Rinse the brass with wet rags and dry it with towels.
Tip
Wear a respirator if your work area is not ventilated.
Warning
Metal putty knifes may leave scratches in the underlying brass. Be sure to use a plastic scraper.
Don't apply solvent to brass using a synthetic brush, as stripping solvents will ruin synthetic bristles.
Never smoke cigarettes while using flammable paint solvents.
Tips
- Wear a respirator if your work area is not ventilated.
Warnings
- Metal putty knifes may leave scratches in the underlying brass. Be sure to use a plastic scraper.
- Don't apply solvent to brass using a synthetic brush, as stripping solvents will ruin synthetic bristles.
- Never smoke cigarettes while using flammable paint solvents.
Writer Bio
Ryan Lawrence is a freelance writer based in Boulder, Colorado. He has been writing professionally since 1999. He has 10 years of experience as a professional painting contractor. Lawrence writes for High Class Blogs and Yodle. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relations with a minor in history from the University of Oklahoma.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
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