What is the best thing to use to clean acrylic model paint off paintbrushes?

Answer 1

white spirit

Answer 2

When you say "acrylic model" paint, I wonder if you really meant a paint used by "model makers" (usuallly defined as those who put together kits for airplanes, etc.) --those paints are usually not water-based (acrylic), they're "solvent" based ... OR whether you meant acrylic "craft" paint which is used for all kinds of other crafts but not usually referred to as "model paints."

As Hansolo said, acrylic paints can be removed only when they're still wet (though they *may* be peelable or otherwise somewhat removable if they're not firmly bonded, or if not thoroughly cured yet which takes about a week).
This is a real problem for those who use acrylic paints, and if they aren't careful to clean their brushes or put them in air-tight containers, brushes left to dry with acrylic paint in them will just have to be thrown away.)

All the other solvents that responders have mentioned are basically for "enamel" paints (model paints and others) as far as I understand, not for acrylic paints.

(I see I responded at the same time as abuela Nany, who said about the same thing... sorry for the repeat)

Diane B.

Answer 3

Acrylic paint can be removed from paintbrushes with water and a little dishwashing liquid provided that the paint on the brush is still wet.

Answer 4

Acrylic paint is a water based paint, turpentine or other solventes will just make it "curdle" on your brush....(it will turn gooey).

The best thing to do is keep your brushes in water while painting so they don't dry out. (If the bristles have hardened with dry paint you will have to throw them away and buy new ones)

Once you have finished your artwork, place the brushes in warm water with a little dishwashing liquid. and swish them around a little, till the paint comes off, and the bristles have their original colour. (If there is some thicker or stickier paint, take a bar of plain soap and brush the bristles across it a couple of times to get soap on them, then rub the brush against the palm of your hand until the soap removes the remaining paint. Rinse well and wipe dry...your bushes should be like new).

Answer 5

honestly it is water.
1. never get paint all the way up to the ferrule
2. rinse it regularly, and change the water often, have some kitchen roll at hand to remove excess water and paint.
3. never let the paint dry on the brush, and don't use too much.
4. always store the brush up-right.

don't use thinners as these are reserved for more enamel based paints

Answer 6

I paint overpasses and bridges as a profession and I've learned that M.E.K. (methyl ethyl ketone) will clean up any kind of paint to exclude water based paints ie. latex. Be careful with it though it's a very hot thinner use in well ventilated area and make sure to read manufacturers recommendations. I use various types of paint and finishes when woodworking and it woorks great for me.

Answer 7

try paint thinners you can buy it from model shops. lots of makes to choose from such as tamiya or revell but they do the same job, after cleaning the brushes in the thinners wash they in water and dry with paper a kitchen/paper towel.

Answer 8

mineral spirit, but the catch is to cleans it right away after painting or it will not come out completely.

Answer 9

lacquer thinner will work the best.
paint thinner or other solvents may do an adequate job if that's what you have on hand

Answer 10

Try white spirit or thinners