How to Remove Acrylic Paint from Varnished Wood

Removing paint from wood can be tricky, especially when dealing with finished surfaces like varnish. Based on the provided information, here's how to tackle **acrylic paint** on **varnished wood**.

For **varnished wood**, the safest and most effective method suggested is using **hot, soapy water**.

## Step-by-Step Guide Using Hot, Soapy Water

1.  **Prepare the Solution:** Mix hot water with a mild soap.
2.  **Apply to Area:** Soak a soft cloth in the hot, soapy water.
3.  **Gentle Scrubbing:** Gently scrub the painted area on the varnished wood with the soaked cloth. The goal is to lift and remove the paint.
4.  **Avoid Damage:** Be gentle to avoid damaging the underlying varnish finish.

## Alternative Methods for Breaking Down Acrylic Paint

The reference also mentions other agents that are excellent for breaking down acrylic paint:

*   **Denatured Alcohol:** Effective for dissolving acrylic paint.
*   **Rubbing Alcohol:** Also works well to break down acrylic paint.

**Note:** While these alcohols are effective on acrylic paint itself, the reference specifically recommends **hot, soapy water** as the **safest and most effective method for *varnished wood*** to prevent damage to the finish. Always test any method on an inconspicuous area first, especially with alcohol, as it can potentially affect the varnish layer.

## Why Hot, Soapy Water for Varnished Wood?

Varnish provides a protective layer on wood. Harsh solvents or aggressive scrubbing can easily strip or dull this layer, ruining the finish. Hot, soapy water is a milder approach that helps to soften and lift the paint without necessarily attacking the varnish directly.

| Method              | Target Paint    | Target Surface | Effectiveness on Paint | Safety on Varnish | Recommended by Reference for Varnish? |
| :------------------ | :-------------- | :------------- | :--------------------- | :---------------- | :------------------------------------ |
| Hot, Soapy Water    | Acrylic         | Varnished Wood | Good (lifts/softens)   | High              | Yes                                   |
| Denatured Alcohol   | Acrylic         | N/A            | Excellent              | Lower             | No (Safer option is hot, soapy water) |
| Rubbing Alcohol     | Acrylic         | N/A            | Excellent              | Lower             | No (Safer option is hot, soapy water) |

*Disclaimer: This information is based on the provided reference focusing on removing acrylic paint from varnished wood.*