I recently been working on a 1/72 F-16 for the F-16 group build. Last night I took off the masking of my canopy and noticed that I have an area where the tape lifted and the paint got through. Can any one tell me what is the easiest way in taking off the paint? Or do I have to strip it down and start all over? Thanks for the help.
What paint is it ?
Windex and a Q-tip works wonders on acrylic. I toothpick also works nice without scratching the canopy.
Tecs, it is enamel paint.
Take a toothpick and cut an end into the shape of a chisle. With the chisle end gently scrape the paint from the canopy. If you used a laquer type paint it would etch the clear plastic. If this is the case then chisle as much of the paint away as you can and then gently sand the clear area with 1000, 1500, or 2000 grit wet/dry sand paper. Polish the sanded area with plastic polish or tooth paste (not gel) and dip the canopy in Future clear acrylic. This should solve your problem.
You can try using brake fluid on a cotton swab, but your best bet is to strip it.
This is yet another reason to dip clear parts in Future: It makes removal of a botched job much easier.
Triarius, I forgot to mention that I did dip the canopy in future before I masked it. Does this change the procedure?
Absolutely.
With the Future acting as a barrier coat, you can use an organic solvent to remove the enamel paint. I’d suggest a cotton swab and mineral spirits, which should allow you to remove the paint without affecting the Future or plastic. Lacquer thinner will get through Future.
If you want to strip the whole canopy, just soak it in Windex, which will remove both Future and the paint on top of it.
Wanted to say thanks to Tecs, Mucker, Rangerj, Triarius. The advice you gave me helped out greatly. Thanks for taking the time to help a fellow modeler out. I will have progess pics up soon.
Thanks agian - Painklr
You’re welcome!