How to Remove Paint from Plastic Model Kits Safely with Scalecoat Wash Away
Scalecoat Wash Away is the professional modeler’s secret weapon for rescuing and restoring plastic model kits. Whether you’re working on a Tamiya car, Revell airplane, or AMT truck, stripping paint from plastic surfaces can be tricky — too harsh a solvent and your model melts, too weak and the old paint just won’t budge. That’s where Wash Away stands out: a plastic-safe paint remover designed specifically for hobby use.
Why Plastic Model Builders Need a Dedicated Paint Remover
Many builders eventually face the same challenge — a paint job gone wrong, an older kit that needs refreshing, or a secondhand model that deserves new life. Household paint strippers and strong automotive solvents are not the answer; they can distort, craze, or even dissolve polystyrene. Scalecoat Wash Away solves this problem by targeting the paint layer while leaving delicate details, rivets, and panel lines intact.
Key Benefits of Scalecoat Wash Away for Plastic Models
- Plastic-Safe Formula: Specially engineered for polystyrene, ABS, and most common model plastics — without the surface damage caused by industrial strippers.
- Reusable: Use the same bath multiple times; simply filter out the old paint flakes and pour it back into the container.
- Fast-Acting: Removes most hobby enamels, lacquers, and acrylics within minutes.
- Non-Aggressive Scent and Low Fume: Easier to work with indoors than traditional lacquer thinners.
- Works on Multiple Brands: Ideal for model kits from Tamiya, Revell, AMT, Eduard, Hasegawa, and Monogram.
How to Strip Paint from Plastic Model Kits Step-by-Step
- Prepare a Soak Container: Choose a glass or HDPE plastic container large enough to submerge your model parts.
- Pour in Scalecoat Wash Away: Fill enough to cover the pieces. The product is reusable, so you can store it afterward for later use.
- Soak for 10–15 Minutes: Most paints will begin to soften quickly. Heavier coats may require up to an hour.
- Scrub with a Soft Brush: Use an old toothbrush or paintbrush to lift the loosened paint under warm running water.
- Rinse and Repeat if Needed: Particularly stubborn lacquer layers might need a second application.
- Dry Thoroughly Before Repainting: Let parts air dry completely before priming and repainting with your favorite Scalecoat or hobby paints.
Tip: Always test on a small hidden area before committing. Avoid soaking resin or clear parts, as certain materials can react differently.
Common Questions About Removing Paint from Model Kits
Will Wash Away damage plastic?
No — unlike hardware-store strippers, Scalecoat Wash Away was developed for model trains and kits. It softens paint without attacking the base plastic, even after long soak times.
Can I use it on resin or 3D-printed parts?
Wash Away is designed for polystyrene and ABS. While some resin parts may tolerate it, always perform a spot test first. For 3D-printed resin, use milder alcohol-based cleaners instead.
What types of paint does it remove?
It effectively strips enamels, lacquers, and most acrylic hobby paints — perfect for builders who use brands like Tamiya, AK Interactive, Mr. Hobby, Scalecoat II, and MCW Finishes.
Can I reuse it?
Yes. After use, strain the liquid through a coffee filter to remove debris. Store it in its original container and keep the lid tightly closed for extended shelf life.
Before & After: Breathing New Life into Old Kits
Many hobbyists underestimate how powerful a repaint can be. A decades-old AMT car or vintage Revell aircraft can look factory-fresh after removing its thick, yellowed paint layers. By safely stripping the surface, builders can add modern detailing, reapply smooth primer coats, and achieve a professional finish that matches today’s high-end kits.
Why Choose Scalecoat Wash Away Over Other Paint Removers
There are dozens of “paint strippers” marketed toward hobbyists, but most fall short for one reason — they’re either too weak to remove enamels or too harsh for plastic. Wash Away occupies the perfect middle ground. Because it was formulated for Scalecoat I and Scalecoat II paints, it’s powerful enough to handle stubborn coatings yet gentle on plastic shells.
Comparison Highlights
| Product | Plastic-Safe | Reusable | Removes Enamel | Odor Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scalecoat Wash Away | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Low |
| Isopropyl Alcohol | ⚠️ Limited | ❌ No | ❌ Weak | Moderate |
| Brake Fluid | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | High & Toxic |
| Household Paint Stripper | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Strong | Very High |
Tips for the Best Results When Stripping Paint
- Use gloves and ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated space.
- Disassemble your kit: Remove clear parts and decals before soaking.
- Don’t rush: Let Wash Away do the work; excessive scrubbing can mar delicate details.
- Filter and store used solution: Reuse saves cost and reduces waste.
- Finish with a gentle wash: Rinse parts with warm water and mild soap before repainting.
Where to Buy Scalecoat Wash Away
You can order Scalecoat Wash Away directly from Fusion Scale Hobbies, your authorized Scalecoat retailer. It’s also part of the official Scalecoat Paint product line.
Pair it with Scalecoat I and Scalecoat II paints for a complete finish cycle — strip, prime, repaint, and seal — all within one trusted system.
Final Thoughts
For plastic modelers looking to remove paint from model kits safely, Scalecoat Wash Away delivers professional results without risking your hard work. Its gentle, reusable formula means you can restore vintage kits, fix painting mistakes, and experiment fearlessly — knowing your plastic is protected.
Bring your models back to life. Strip it, clean it, and make it new again with Scalecoat Wash Away.