Miniature Paint Stripping

Second hand painted miniatures are something every Oldhammer hobbyist will consider obtaining at some point as they look for an elusive miniature or simply find the 'used' painted ones better priced.

The key knowledge in doing so is that those old models can be stripped and cleaned back to a "factory fresh" state with a Dettol bath and bit of hard work.

Instructions

Find a good size glass, metal or plastic tray/tub with an air tight lid. 

Lay the the miniatures carefully inside minus all plastic components such as bases and shields. Where bases are concerned remove them and reuse if possible but be very careful not to break the miniature base tab; if necessary better to clip away the old base and use a new one later.

Add Dettol slowly over the miniatures so all elements are submerged. Tightly seal the lid and wait a day. Two to three days is probably optimal.

Warning! You are now about to utilise the "Bog Of Eternal Stench" so you might like to use rubber gloves removing the miniatures. Always lay down a fair few pieces of newspaper or alternative protective absorbant layer beforehand. 

Remove one miniature to clean at a time. They may be slippery so be careful. Use a toothbrush to gently remove the paint residue on to some kitchen roll. A cocktail stick is useful for getting paint out of crevices and detailed areas.

Resoak after initial cleaning if further layers are stubbornly resisting removal.

Soak even longer to soften superglue residue which eventually can be removed by the cocktail stick.

When done give the miniature a final light brush with washing up liquid at the sink and rinse thoroughly.

The miniature can then be patted down with kitchen roll and left out to dry thoroughly.

The slight stink will remain for a few weeks or until repainted!