How do you remove paint from molding?

Answer 1

It is often easier to remove old paint from molding and trim when they have been removed, making them easier to work with. Removed or not the method is the same. Apply a heavy coat of paint stripper to the surfaces in question and allow enough time for the stripper to break down the old paint. The most common mistake people make when using paint stripper is not giving it enough time to work or not using enough of the product. To make any paint stripping job easier I apply the first coat and wait for 20 or 30 minutes. Then, for good measure, I apply a second coat of stripper which usually loosens any remaining old paint. Once all the old paint has been loosened by the stripper use a plastic putty knife to remove the paint and leftover stripper. Metal scrapers or putty knives will leave deep gouges in the molding, trim or whatever you might be scraping. In my experience the gel strippers work the best, are easier to clean up and don't make too much of a mess. After those two steps are complete use a 60 or 80 grit sand paper for the initial sanding then 120 grit or finer for a nice smooth surface. When all is said and done the smoother the surface the better your project will look upon completion. Also, be sure to wear rubber gloves when applying and scraping the stripper, as it is pretty caustic stuff.