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How to Scrape Paint When it All Won't Come Off

Accidental spills are bound to occur when handling paint. While paint thinner helps to eliminate a majority of the stain, it often leaves behind blotches of paint residue on the surface. Thankfully, scraping, when performed carefully, can remove dried paint stains from hard surfaces without damaging them. Scraping the paint from wood or a wall forcibly removes the paint, so it is not advisable with delicate surfaces. Avoid permanent damage to such surfaces by consulting a professional cleaning service for advice on the best method for gentle paint removal.

Things You'll Need

  • Chemical paint stripper
  • Metal pan
  • Soft-bristle brush
  • Protective gloves
  • Scraper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pour 1 cup of chemical paint stripper into a metal pan. Dip a clean, soft-bristle brush into the solution.

    • 2

      Brush the painted surface in one direction with the stripper, and reapply two to three coats of the solution over the painted area to saturate it. Brushing in one direction, as opposed to back and forth, thickens the layer of paint stripper rather than spreading it.

    • 3

      Allow the stripping solution to sit on the painted surface for up to 30 minutes, or as long as the manufacturer's instructions indicate.

    • 4

      Cover your hands with gardening or rubber gloves. Hold the metal scraper at a 45-degree angle.

    • 5

      Scrape the paint off of the surface by dragging the scraper in an upward motion. Wet a soft cloth with cool water and wipe off the scraped area once all of the paint is removed.