Barrettine Paint Panther Paint & Varnish Remover

Barrettine Paint Panther Paint & Varnish Remover is a powerful, fast-acting gel paint stripper designed to remove multiple layers of paint, varnish and other surface coatings. Its thick, non-drip gel formula clings to vertical surfaces, intricate details and awkward areas, making it particularly useful for furniture restoration, decorating and general paint removal.

Suitable for use on wood, metal and masonry, Paint Panther can remove many different types of coatings, including acrylic paints, polyurethane finishes, metalised paints and hammer-finish coatings. It is methylene chloride-free and uses anti-evaporation technology to help keep the product active for longer during application.

• Features and benefits
• What can Paint Panther remove?
• Suitable surfaces
• How to use Paint Panther
• Coverage and working time
• Safety and precautions
• Frequently asked questions

Features and Benefits

• Fast-acting paint stripper: Designed to soften and lift multiple layers of paint and varnish.
• Non-drip gel formula: Clings to vertical surfaces, mouldings and awkward areas.
• Wide coating compatibility: Removes many types of paint and surface coatings, including metalised and hammer-finish paints.
• Methylene chloride-free: Formulated without methylene chloride (dichloromethane).
• Non-caustic formulation: No neutralising treatment is required after stripping.
• Reduced evaporation: Anti-evaporation technology helps keep the stripper active for longer.
• Versatile use: Suitable for a range of wood, metal and masonry stripping projects.

What Can Paint Panther Remove?

Barrettine Paint Panther is designed to remove many types of surface coatings, making it useful for restoration and renovation work. Depending on the coating and its condition, it can be used to remove:

• Paint from wooden furniture, doors and other timber surfaces.
• Old paint and varnish from suitable woodwork.
• Acrylic paints and coatings.
• Polyurethane coatings.
• Metalised paints and hammer-finish paints.
• Some two-pack and factory-applied coatings.
• Shellac-based finishes, including French polish, sanding sealers and knotting solutions.

Paint Panther is intended for surface coatings. It will not remove wood stain where the pigment or dye has penetrated into the timber itself. Some specialist industrial, UV-cured and high-temperature coatings may also resist removal. Always carry out a test patch before starting work.

Suitable Surfaces

Paint Panther is suitable for use on:

• Wood: Suitable for stripping paint and varnish from furniture, doors, skirting boards and other timber surfaces.
• Metal: Can remove many metal paints, including metalised and hammer-finish coatings.
• Masonry: Suitable for removing compatible masonry paint and other surface coatings.

Important: Do not use Paint Panther on plastic, Perspex or fibreglass, as it may damage or etch these materials. Other unfamiliar substrates should be tested on a small, inconspicuous area first.

How to Use Barrettine Paint Panther

Always read the product label and safety information before use. The following guidance is based on the manufacturer’s technical instructions.

1. Prepare the surface: Remove loose dirt and debris. Protect surrounding surfaces that are not being stripped with suitable sheeting.
2. Carry out a test patch: Test a small, inconspicuous area to check compatibility and confirm that Paint Panther works effectively on the coating.
3. Prepare the product: Shake or stir the container thoroughly. Decant a small amount into a suitable non-plastic container and replace the lid.
4. Apply the gel: Using a clean brush, apply a liberal, even coat by dabbing the product onto the surface. Do not spread it too thinly.
5. Allow it to work: Many coatings will begin to blister after approximately 10–15 minutes. Test a small area with a stripping knife or shave hook to check whether the coating can be removed.
6. Remove the coating: If necessary, work additional product into the blisters and allow a further 10–20 minutes of penetration, monitoring closely to ensure the gel does not dry out. Scrape away the softened coating. A stiff-bristled brush can help with intricate areas.
7. Repeat if necessary: Apply again where stubborn areas or additional layers of coating remain.
8. Clean the surface: Wipe the stripped surface with White Spirit or methylated spirits. Water can also be used, although it may raise the grain on certain types of wood.
9. Prepare for refinishing: Allow the surface to dry thoroughly, then rub down with fine sandpaper or a suitable stainless steel pad before applying a new finish.

Work on small areas of approximately 0.5m² at a time to prevent the product evaporating before the coating has been fully removed. Working conditions between 5°C and 25°C are recommended.

Coverage and Working Time

Coverage is up to approximately 3m² per litre, depending on the type of coating and the number of layers being removed. As a guide, 500ml may cover up to approximately 1.5m².

Many coatings begin to blister within 10–15 minutes. Further penetration time may be required before scraping, depending on the coating. Stubborn finishes and multiple layers may require repeat applications.

Safety and Precautions

Paint Panther is a highly flammable product and must be used with care. Ensure the working area is well ventilated, preferably outdoors. Wear suitable chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing and eye or face protection.

• Keep away from heat, sparks, naked flames and other ignition sources.
• Do not smoke while using the product.
• Do not use with heat guns or blow torches.
• Avoid breathing vapours and use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not empty the product or stripping waste into drains or watercourses.
• Store upright in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extremes of temperature.

Older paintwork: Paint applied to wood or metal before the 1960s may contain lead. If lead paint is suspected, do not sand or score the surface. Avoid creating dust, use appropriate protective equipment and follow the recommended guidance for safe removal and disposal of the waste.

Always consult the product label and Safety Data Sheet for the full safety instructions before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Barrettine Paint Panther used for?

Paint Panther is a gel paint and varnish remover used to soften and remove multiple layers of surface coatings. It is suitable for many restoration and decorating jobs on wood, metal and masonry.

Can Paint Panther remove varnish from wood?

Yes. Paint Panther can remove many types of varnish and surface coatings from suitable timber. It can also dissolve shellac-based finishes such as French polish. Always test a small area first.

Can Paint Panther be used on vertical surfaces?

Yes. Its thick, non-drip gel consistency is designed to cling to vertical surfaces, making it useful for stripping doors, skirting boards, mouldings and other awkward areas.

Can Paint Panther remove multiple layers of paint?

Yes. It is designed to soften and lift multiple layers of paint and varnish. The number of layers removed will depend on the type, thickness and condition of the coating. Repeat applications may be needed.

Can I use Paint Panther on plastic?

No. Paint Panther is not suitable for plastic, Perspex or fibreglass, as it can damage or etch these materials. Always check compatibility before applying to an unfamiliar surface.

Does Paint Panther need neutralising after use?

No. Its non-caustic formulation does not require a separate neutralising treatment. The manufacturer recommends wiping the stripped surface with White Spirit or methylated spirits before allowing it to dry and preparing it for refinishing.

How long does Paint Panther take to work?

Many coatings begin to blister after approximately 10–15 minutes. Further penetration time may be needed before scraping, depending on the coating and its thickness. Do not allow the product to dry out while it is working.

Will Paint Panther remove wood stain?

Paint Panther removes surface coatings rather than stains that have penetrated into the timber. It will not remove wood stain where the pigment or dye has absorbed into the wood.

Can Paint Panther remove French polish?

Yes. The manufacturer confirms that Paint Panther can dissolve shellac-based finishes, including French polish, sanding sealers and knotting solutions. It may not blister in the same way as modern paint coatings.

How much Paint Panther will I need?

Coverage is up to approximately 3m² per litre, depending on the coating and number of layers. For example, 500ml may cover up to approximately 1.5m². Heavily painted surfaces may require more product.