Old paint often peels as it degrades, making it easier to remove.
Paint ages and eventually needs to be removed, particularly if there are several layers of paint. A lot of chemical strippers are available, along with non-toxic strippers designed for green homeowners. However, you can remove paint with other methods as well. One thing to remember is that paint wants to come off. Usually, you have to do a lot of work to make the paint stick. If you think about what makes paint peel, such as harsh weather and hot sun, you are on the right track for removing the paint.
Instructions
1. Replicate harsh weather conditions by dissolving washing soda in water. Washing soda is similar to baking soda and it is sometimes located in the same area in the store. It is also called soda ash. Add flour to the dissolved soda ash until the mixture forms a gel.
2. Paint the gel onto the painted surface. Allow the mixture to sit for 30 minutes before checking it. Rinse the area thoroughly and scrub off the residues using a stiff brush. Do not use soda ash on oak.
3. Heat up the paint to replicate intense sunlight. Heat loosens the adhesion properties between the paint and the surface. Use a heat gun over the softened paint. As the paint heats up it will become very soft and goopy. Scrape the paint off using a paint scraper. Rinse the area with water when most of the paint is removed and scrub with a stiff brush.
4. Sand the object to replicate grit. Sanding cuts through the surface of the paint, degrading the paint from the top down. Use sandpaper for small carved areas, a sanding block for medium flat pieces, and an orbital sander for any larger surface area. Work from heavier grits to fine grits as the paint lifts.
