Stripping Time
Today we have all been enjoying some stripping time. That’s right, stripping our classic terminator models ready for their magnificent new paint jobs. This is all part of the process to prepare them for the extra little painting challenge this month. A painting challenge which has the possibility of totally distracting everyone!
Stripping back old metal and lead models is a pretty easy process if you know what you’re doing. It also a great way to go back and re-vitalise some of your first paint jobs after your painting experience builds. We used to get asked in the store a lot, what’s the best way to strip paint off a model? From time to time, we still get asked that question. So, today we are going to do a quick little guide on how to strip paint from a metal miniature.
Paint Stripping A Metal Miniature in 3 Easy Steps
Step 1 – Preparation
The list of things needed is pretty basic.
- Old metal miniature
- Acetone
- An old mug or glass jar big enough to fit the model
- An old toothbrush
- Some rubber gloves
A few things to note. First, always remember to read the warning labels on any products and follow all instructions. Second, be sure to use gloves and work in a ventilated area. Now, with safety covered, here’s a quick tip. While getting hold of 100% acetone is great, nail polish remover that contains at least 80% acetone will also work. It may even be in your house already.
With the list of items ready the only other preparation needed is to ensure all plastic is removed from the model. This stripping process will remove paint from metal models with ease but acetone will destroy plastic.
“Do not put any plastic in the acetone, as it will melt.”
– SPARKY
Step 2 – Stripping Time
Place the miniature into the old mug or glass jar. Pour enough acetone into the jar to completely cover the model. Then pour a little more to make sure it stays covered in acetone even if there is some evaporation.
Now just leave the miniature to sit for a while. Go and make a coffee. If there is not a lot of paint on the model most of it may come off after only 10 minutes. If the miniature is covered in several layers or has a lot of superglue on it then it may need to be left in for a few hours. Often, it is just easier to leave it overnight and come back in the morning.
Step 3 – Clean Up Your Mess
After the model has sat for long enough in the acetone the paint should already be coming off. To check, put some rubber gloves on and take the model out and have a look. If the paint is still stuck in large areas put it back in the acetone for a while longer. This is why it is easier to just leave it overnight. Drop it in and forget about it then come the next morning it will be ready.
The next morning, remove the miniature from the acetone. Remember to wear rubber gloves! Take an old toothbrush and scrub the model to remove any last little remnants of paint. Dip the toothbrush in some acetone and give the miniature a good scrub in those hard to reach places to make sure no paint is left.
The miniature should now be as good as new. Leave it for a while to dry and it will be ready for its new undercoat and amazing new paint job.
If you want a copy of the poster guide on stripping metal miniatures we have put a copy up on our Twitter and shared the image on our Instagram.
Plus, you can download a pdf copy below!
Paint Off Time
Now that our stripping time is over and all three of the classic terminator captains are stripped and ready, the painting competition has officially started. Everyone has been given until the end of May to paint the model to the highest standard they can. Decisions around chapters, colour schemes and markings have all been left up to the individual painters. No conversions are allowed. This is a pure paint off! Basing choices are open but must be within gaming rules so the models can still be used. No basing for advantage. We will be letting you decide who the winner is!
Check back for updates each Thursday to see how everyone is going.
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