11 Easy Ways of Removing Acrylic Paint from Wood

Removing acrylic paint from wood can be a daunting task.

There are many different ways to do it, and some methods work better than others depending on the type of wood and the severity of the paint stain.

In this blog post, we will explore several methods for removing acrylic paint from wood and provide tips on getting the best results.

Let’s get started!

How to Remove Acrylic Paint From Wood

1. Soak the cotton ball or pad in rubbing alcohol.
2. Press the cotton ball onto the paint stain.
3. Hold the cotton ball in place for several minutes to allow the alcohol to penetrate the paint.
4. Gently rub the cotton ball over the stain in a circular motion.
5. Use a paper towel to wipe away any residue.
6. Repeat these steps until the paint is gone.

What is Acrylic Paint?

Acrylic paint is a type of synthetic resin-based paint. It is water-resistant and has good durability, making it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor painting projects.

However, because it is made from synthetic materials, acrylic paint can be difficult to remove once it has been applied to a surface.

But, Does Acrylic Paint Work on Wood? Find out!

Types of Acrylic Paint Stain

Wet Stain: A wet stain is the easiest type of acrylic paint stain to remove. If the paint is still wet, you can simply wipe it away with a damp cloth.

Dry Stain: A dry stain is more difficult to remove, but it is still possible to get rid of it with the right methods.

Old Stain: An old stain may be set in and more difficult to remove, but it is not impossible. With the right tools and techniques, you can get rid of an old acrylic paint stain.

Is Acrylic Paint Permanent On Wood?

It depends. Acrylic paint is a synthetic paint made from polymer resins. Acrylic paint is water-soluble when first applied but becomes water-resistant when dry.

However, the extent to which it is permanent or removable depends on the surface it has been applied to, as well as the type of paint and the methods used.

For example, if you were to apply acrylic paint to untreated wood, it would be more likely to peel and flake off than if you had used a primer or sealer first.

Similarly, if you were to try and remove dry acrylic paint from wood using just water, it would be more difficult than if you used a solvent such as alcohol.

For more information on the permanency of acrylic paint, check out our blog post.

Are There Alternatives for Acrylic Paint on Wood?

Yes, there are other types of paint that can be used on wood. Water-based latex paint is one option.

It is easier to apply and remove than acrylic paint and does not require a primer or sealer.

However, it is not as durable as acrylic paint and is not suitable for all projects. Another option is oil-based paint.

It is more durable than water-based latex paint but can be more difficult to apply and remove. It is also not suitable for all projects.

Chalk acrylic paint is another option that can be used on wood. The paint is easy to apply and remove and does not require a primer or sealer.

However, it is not as durable as acrylic paint and is not suitable for all wood projects.

Read Also: How to Seal Wooden Surface with Acrylic Paint

How to Remove Acrylic Paint from Wood – 11 Methods

Several methods can be used to remove acrylic paint from wood, some of which are listed below.

• Soap and Water
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Vegetable Oil
• Heat Gun
• Lacquer Thinner
• Sandpaper
• Paint Stripper
• Acetone
• Denatured Alcohol
• Ammonia Solution
• Solvent

1. How to Remove Acrylic Paint from Wood with Soap and Water

One of the easiest and most common ways to remove acrylic paint from wood is with soap and water. This method is best for removing fresh, wet paint.

Here are what you will need:

• Soap
• Water
• Sponge or rag

To remove acrylic paint from wood with soap and water, follow these steps:

1. Wet the sponge or rag with water.
2. Add soap to the sponge or rag and lather it up.
3. Rub the soapy sponge or rag over the paint stain.
4. Rinse the sponge or rag with clean water and rub it over the stain again.
5. Repeat these steps until the paint is gone.

Be sure to be gentle as you work with the wood, because too much force can damage its surface.

It might take 1-2 days for your project’s dry completely so plan ahead by giving it plenty of time before making any more changes!

2. How to Remove Acrylic Paint from Wood with Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is another common household item that can be used to remove acrylic paint from wood. This method is best for removing dried, hardened paint.

Here are what you will need:

• Rubbing alcohol
• Cotton balls or pads
• Paper towels

To remove acrylic paint from wood with rubbing alcohol, follow these steps:

1. Soak the cotton ball or pad in rubbing alcohol.
2. Press the cotton ball or pad onto the paint stain.
3. Hold the cotton ball or pad in place for several minutes to allow the alcohol to penetrate the paint.
4. Gently rub the cotton ball or pad over the stain in a circular motion.
5. Use a paper towel to wipe away any residue.
6. Repeat these steps until the paint is gone.

Precautions for using rubbing alcohol

• Rubbing alcohol is flammable. Be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from heat sources.
• Do not use rubbing alcohol on varnished or painted surfaces. It can damage the finish.

3. How to Remove Acrylic Paint from Wood with Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is another household item that can be used to remove acrylic paint from wood. This method is best for removing dried, hardened paint.

Vegetable oil is a good method for removing dried, hardened paint from wood because it can penetrate the paint and break it down.

It is also a gentler method than some of the others on this list, so it is less likely to damage the wood.

Here are what you will need:

• Vegetable oil
• Cotton balls or pads
• Paper towels

To remove acrylic paint from wood with vegetable oil, follow these steps:

1. First, apply a generous amount of vegetable oil to the area with a soft cloth.
2. Then, using a scrub brush, gently scrub the paint away.
3. Finally, wipe the area clean with a damp cloth.
4. Repeat as necessary until all of the paint is removed.

And there you have it! A simple solution for removing unwanted paint from your wood surfaces.

4. Removing Acrylic Paint From Wood Using Heat Gun

If you’re looking for a more heavy-duty solution, removing acrylic paint from wood using heat gun might be the way to go.

This method is best for removing dried, hardened paint. The heat helps to loosen the paint’s bond to the surface, making it easier to remove.

Here are what you will need:

• Heat gun
• Scraper
• Protective gloves
• Safety goggles

To remove acrylic paint from wood using a heat gun, follow these steps:

1. Wear protective gloves and safety goggles.
2. Hold the heat gun about six inches away from the surface of the wood.
3. Slowly move the heat gun back and forth over the area until the paint begins to bubble and peel.
4. Use a scraper to remove the paint.

Precautions for using the heat gun method

• Wear protective gloves and safety goggles when using a heat gun. The heat can be very damaging to your skin and eyes.
• Also, be careful not to overheat the wood. This can cause the wood to warp or discolor.

5. Removing Acrylic Paint From Wood using Lacquer Thinner

Lacquer thinner is a strong solvent that can be used to remove paint from wood. This method is best for removing dried, hardened paint.

Lacquer thinner is a good choice for removing paint from wood because it dissolves the paint and leaves the wood unharmed.

Here are what you will need:

• Lacquer thinner
• Cotton balls or pads
• Paper towels

To remove acrylic paint from wood using lacquer thinner, follow these steps:

1. Soak a cotton ball or pad in lacquer thinner.
2. Press the cotton ball or pad onto the paint stain.
3. Hold the cotton ball or pad in place for several minutes to allow the thinner to penetrate the paint.
4. Gently rub the cotton ball or pad over the stain in a circular motion.
5. Use a paper towel to wipe away any residue.
6. Repeat these steps until the paint is gone.

Precautions for using lacquer thinner

• Lacquer thinner is a very strong solvent that can harm your skin and eyes. Be sure to wear gloves and safety goggles when using this method.
• In addition, lacquer thinner is flammable. Be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from any open flames.

6. Acrylic Paint Removal from Wood using sandpaper

Sanding is the most common way to remove paint from wood. It is also the least expensive and time-consuming method.

You will need to purchase sandpaper, which comes in a variety of grits. The lower the number on the sandpaper, the coarser it is. The higher the number, the finer it is.

Tools and materials you’ll need for this project include:

• Sandpaper
• Water
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Paper towels
• Rubber gloves (optional)

To sand off acrylic paint from wood using sandpaper, follow these steps:

Step 1:  Wet the wood surface with a sponge and water. This will raise the grain of the wood, making it easier to sand.

Step 2:  Use a coarse-grit sandpaper to remove the paint. Begin with a lower number and work your way up to a finer grit.

Step 3:  Wipe the wood surface with a damp paper towel to remove any sanding dust.

Step 4:  Repeat steps two and three until all of the paint is removed.

Precautions for using sandpaper

• Sanding produces a lot of dust, so it’s important to wear a dust mask to avoid breathing it in.
• In addition, sanding produces fine particles that can be harmful to your eyes. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.
• You may also want to wear gloves while sanding to avoid getting splinters.

7. Acrylic Paint Removal from Wood using Paint Stripper

Paint stripper is a strong chemical that dissolves the paint. This method is best for removing fresh, wet paint.

This is a good method for removing paint from wood because it dissolves the paint and leaves the wood unharmed.

Tools and materials you’ll need:

• Paint stripper
• Cotton balls or pads
• Paper towels
• Rubber gloves (optional)

Follow these steps to remove acrylic paint from wood using paint stripper:

Step one: Apply the paint stripper to a cotton ball or pad.

Step two: Press the cotton ball or pad onto the paint stain.

Step three: Hold the cotton ball or pad in place for several minutes to allow the stripper to penetrate the paint.

Step four: Gently rub the cotton ball or pad over the stain in a circular motion.

Step five: Use a paper towel to wipe away any residue.

Step six: Repeat these steps until the paint is gone.

Note: If you are using paint stripper on a wooden deck, you might need to use a power washer to remove all of the residue.

Precautions for using paint stripper

• Paint stripper is a very strong chemical. Be sure to wear gloves and safety goggles when using this method.
• In addition, paint stripper is flammable. Be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from any open flames.

8. How to Get Acrylic Paint off Wood using Acetone

Acetone is often used as a paint thinner, and it can also be used to remove paint from wood. Acetone is a solvent that will dissolve most types of paint, including acrylic paint.

When using acetone to remove paint from wood, it is important to take care not to damage the wood itself.

Tools and materials you’ll need:

• Acetone
• Cotton balls or pads
• Paper towels
• Rubber gloves (optional)

To remove acrylic paint from wood using acetone, follow these steps:

Step one: Saturate a cotton ball or pad with acetone.

Step two: Rub the cotton ball or pad over the paint stain in a circular motion.

Step three: Use a paper towel to wipe away any residue.

Step four: Repeat these steps until the paint is gone.

Precaution for using acetone

Acetone can be quite harsh on wood, and it is possible to remove too much paint, causing the wood to become discolored or even damaged.

For this reason, it is always best to test acetone on a small area of the wood before using it on the entire surface.

9. How to Get Acrylic Paint off Wood using Denatured Alcohol

Denatured alcohol is such a handy tool for removing acrylic paint from wood.

Denatured alcohol is a strong solvent that will quickly dissolve the paint, without harming the wood beneath. Plus, it’s easy to find and relatively inexpensive.

Tools and materials you’ll need:

• Denatured alcohol
• Cotton balls or rag
• Paper towels
• Putty knife
• Soap and water
• Primer
• Rubber gloves (optional)

To remove acrylic paint from wood using denatured alcohol, follow these steps:

1. Soak a rag in denatured alcohol.
2. Rub the soaked rag over the paint until it begins to loosen.
3. Scrape the softened paint from the wood with a putty knife.
4. Wipe away any residual paint with a clean rag.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 as necessary.
6. Once the paint is removed, clean the area with soap and water.
7. To prevent future paint buildup, sand the surface of the wood smooth.
8. Finish by applying a coat of primer and painting over the area with your desired color.

Precaution for using denatured alcohol

• Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth rather than directly to the wood. 
• Work in small sections and avoid saturating the cloth. 

10. How to Get Acrylic Paint off of wood using Solvent

A solvent is a great way to remove acrylic paint from wood. A solvent will quickly dissolve the paint, without harming the wood beneath.

Plus, it’s easy to find and relatively inexpensive. Some of the solvents include:

• Naphtha
• Xylene
• Toluene

Tools and materials you’ll need:

• Solvent
• Cotton balls or rag
• Paper towels
• Putty knife or old toothbrush 
• Soap and water (for cleaning up)
• Rubber gloves (optional)

To remove acrylic paint from wood using a solvent, follow these steps:

1. Soak a rag in the solvent.
2. Rub the soaked rag over the paint until it begins to loosen.
3. Scrape the softened paint from the wood with a putty knife or old toothbrush.
4. Wipe away any residual paint with a clean rag.
5. Repeat steps two through four as necessary.
6. Once the paint is removed, clean the area with soap and water.

Precaution of using solvent

• Be sure to read the labels on any solvents you use. Some solvents are more harmful than others.
• Do not use solvents around open flames.
• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Wear gloves and a respirator if possible.

11. Ammonia Solution as an Acrylic Paint Remover from Wood

Ammonia is a very effective paint stripper, but it can also be quite harsh. Ammonia should only be used as a last resort when removing paint from wood.

Tools and materials you’ll need:

• Ammonia
• Water
• Cotton balls or pads
• Paper towels
• Rubber gloves (optional)

To remove acrylic paint from wood using ammonia, follow these steps:

Step one: Mix one part of ammonia with one part of water.

Step two: Saturate a cotton ball or pad with the solution.

Step three: Rub the cotton ball or pad over the paint stain in a circular motion.

Step four: Use a paper towel to wipe away any residue.

Step five: Repeat these steps until the paint is gone.

Precautions for using ammonia

Ammonia can be harsh on both wood and skin. Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when using this method.

What is the Best Way to Remove Acrylic Paint?

The best way to remove acrylic paint will depend on the type of wood you’re working with and the amount of paint you need to remove.

For small areas, denatured alcohol or a solvent should do the trick. You may need to resort to ammonia or a paint stripper for more stubborn stains.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to take precautions and work in a well-ventilated area.

Sanding the surface of the wood after removing the paint will also help to prevent future paint buildup.

Best Acrylic Paint Stripper for Wood

If you’re looking for the best acrylic paint stripper for wood, we have reviewed several products to help you make an informed decision.

1. Sunnyside 63532 2-Minute Remover Advanced Paint & Varnish Remover Liquid

Looking for a powerful paint and varnish remover that won’t damage your surfaces? Sunnyside 63532 2-Minute Remover is perfect for the job!

This advanced formula can easily strip multiple layers of acrylic paint or varnish without damaging the underlying surface.

Plus, it’s methylene chloride free, so you can use it with confidence, knowing that it’s safe for both you and the environment.

It’s perfect for use on all kinds of surfaces, including wood, acrylic, varnish, epoxy and polyurethane. And it works great on both oil and water-based paints.

So whatever your project, Sunnyside 63532 2-Minute Remover is the perfect solution!

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It’s safe to use and easy to apply, so you’ll be able to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Plus, it’s odor free for a more pleasant experience.

Don’t let old acrylic paint or varnish stand in your way – try Sunnyside’s 2-Minute Remover today!

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Does Acrylic Paint Wash off with Water?

Acrylic paint is a water-based paint, so it is safe to say that it will wash off with water.

However, depending on the type of paint and how it was applied, you may need to use a little bit of elbow grease.

For example, if the paint was applied with a brush, you may need to use a brush cleaner or paint thinner to remove it.

If the paint was applied with a sprayer, you may need to use a pressure washer to remove it.

Overall, acrylic paint is relatively easy to remove, especially when compared to other types of paint.

Just be sure to take the necessary precautions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

How to Get Acrylic Paint off Hardwood Floors

It’s every artist’s worst nightmare – you’re in the middle of a painting project, and you accidentally spill some acrylic paint on your hardwood floors.

How do you get it off without damaging the wood?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting acrylic paint off hardwood floors:

1. First, blot up as much of the paint as possible with a clean cloth. Don’t scrub, just blot.
2. Next, mix up a solution of one part dish soap and two parts water.
3. Using a clean sponge or cloth, apply the soapy solution to the paint stain and scrub gently. Be careful not to damage the finish on your hardwood floors.
4. Once the paint is gone, rinse the area with clean water to remove any residual soap. Allow the area to dry completely.

If the above method doesn’t work, you can try using rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover ( acetone).

Apply either of these products to a clean cloth and blot the stain until it disappears.

Again, rinse the area well afterwards and allow it to dry completely before walking on it or placing furniture back in place.

FAQs

Conclusion

In most cases, removing acrylic paint from wood is a relatively easy task.

However, depending on the type of paint and how it was applied, you may need to use a little bit of some of the ingredients mentioned above.

Overall, acrylic paint is relatively easy to remove, especially when compared to other types of paint.

Just be sure to take the necessary precautions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.