Painting brick structures

[Anonymous]

Gentleman/Ladies, I am in need of some assistance in how to remove water base paint from a plastic structure, specially in the grout area. I've tried using warm water and soap with a tooth brush, to no avil and also tried several other ways to remove the paint. I have thought I could use a watered down thinner but I'm afraid that the thinner will melt the plastic. So, I know some one out there may have a better idea. All ideas are welcome. You all really helped me on how to paint the grout lines and what I did didn't turn out like I wanted and I would like to start over. You learn by doing............I really do appreciate all the help you folks have given me. Looking forward to hearing from you all.

Jon

[tommyr]

once it's dry I don't think you can remove it without without damaging the plastic. Paint thinner won't work on water based paints. You might try fine steel wool to remove the mortar lines.I think the best solution is to paint your brick colour & then do the mortar lines over.
Tom

[dehusman]

Buy some rubbing alcohol, the 90% alcohol type or denatured alcohol from a paint store and soak it in that for a while.
If that doesn't work, Scalecoat sells a plastic compatible paint stripper.

Dave H.

[Javern]

I think I read that soaking in Mr Clean overnight would lift the paint off

[SpaceMouse]

I've head the best luck with 90% alcohol. Use the backside of a #11 exacto blade to help things alone. Be careful though.

[dgwinup]

Goo Gone makes a product specifically for latex-based paints. I haven't used it on plastic models, so I can't vouch for it's use on plastic. It should be available at home centers and some hardware stores.

Darrell, quiet...for now

[Anonymous]

Rubbing alcohol works well on acrylic paint. I'd use Q-tips or paper towels to lift the paint. I wouldn't leave it soaking, for fear of damaging the plastic. If you want to use something a little gentler, then leave it soaking in Windex (or a similar amonia based cleaner) for a few hours. That should also soften the paint up, well.

[nbrodar]

Rubbing alcohol should work. I'd stay away from the Goo-Gone or Goof-Off, they can craze the plastic. If that doesn't work, you can try a plastic safe paint stripper, like Camelion (sp?). The easiest way may be to just repaint and start again.

Nick