Paint Removal/Cleanup

Latex Paint Removal

In regards to latex paint removal, menthol hydrate or gas line antifreeze work very well.

Oil-Base Paint Removal

For removal of dried oil base paints, you can use laquer thinner, but be careful, it can be harmful to some surfaces. As always, try it in a hidden area first.

Thanks to Ron Baert a painter of 20 years experience.....

Paintbrushes

Parts Of A Paintbrush

A brushes quality is dependent on its construction, the care it recieves and materials it's made of.
A brush is divided into the following sections: the handle, the ferrule, the setting and the stock.
Handles: Normally made of a hardwood.
Ferrule: The link between the handle and the stock. Normally made of steel, nickel, tin or rubber.
Bristle: The best bristles come from Russia and China hogs. The flag holds the paint ( or other medium) into the brush until using and ensures an even delivery of the paint.
A Russian bristle is more durable. The Chinese bristle is more pliable, and therefore easier to break-in.

You should think which particular type of brush, should be used in each particular situation. There are also two kinds of soft hair brushes: soft hair and horse hair. They have different textures, and specific applications. So read the package labels carefully, or ask for assistance.

Setting: The stock of the brush is normally set in cement, wire winding or rubber, depending on the medium the brush is intended for.

Caring For Your Brushes

How to care for your brushes?

• Remove any loose bristles by tapping lightly against the palm of your hand.
• Remove excess paint on brush by pulling the flat of the brush against the containers edge.
• Do not stand on bristles end.
• Clean brush immediately after using.
• Store brush with bristles wrapped in paper.
• Don't use brushes for lye or acids, unless specifically designed for.
• Let brushes to completely dry between uses. Wet brushes make for floppy bristles.
• Use a good cleaner, then water with soap, ( eg. Ivory Snow). Use warm, then cold water to remove soap and allow to dry for 48 to 72 hrs.
  
  

Storing paint brushes

When my husband gets done painting for the day, and still has more to do the next day, or later that day, or even several days later with the same brush and roller, he wraps the brush, and the roller with the handle still attached, in a well sealed plastic bag and places them in the refrigerator--making them instantly ready to use the next time he is able to paint.....the lazy man's way....

Thanks to Gwen Lambert.