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Washable Watercolor Paint on Finished Wood (Paint, Stain, Varnish)

Wipe all stains with a damp sponge. If any stain remains, apply Soft Scrub with a damp sponge, work in a circular motion and rinse. If stain remains, saturate a cotton ball with alcohol and blot the stain and rinse.

If you have additional questions, we would love to hear from you! Feel free to call or text us at 1-800-CRAYOLA weekdays between 9 AM and 4 PM Eastern Time. If you would prefer to send us an email, visit our contact us page.

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Explore answers to common questions, helpful stain removal tips, and creative ideas for making the most of our art supplies and free resources!

  • Cleaning Materials
    None

    Finished wood and wood surfaces: If you have a Color Wonder stain on wood, please call 1-800-CRAYOLA for removal assistance.

  • Cleaning Materials
    Soft Cloth
    Sponge

    Rub away any dried paint with a soft cloth. Remove wet paint or any remaining stain with a damp sponge. If stain still remains, apply Soft Scrub with a soft cloth. Rinse.
  • Cleaning Materials
    Cotton Balls
    Nail Polish Remover
    Soft Scrub Mild Abrasive Cleanser
    Sponge

    Brush and rinse as much of the watercolor from the surface as possible. Apply Soft Scrub with a damp sponge and rub in a circular motion toward the center of the stain, rinse and dry. If any stain remains, apply nail polish remover to a cotton ball, blot stain and rinse. Repeat if necessary.Special PrecautionsDo not use nail polish remover near an open flame.
  • Cleaning Materials
    Dull Knife or Metal Spoon
    Paper Towels
    Liquid Dish Soap
    Formula 49reg
    Sponge

    Clean-up stains as soon as possible, as wet paint that has not yet cured will be easier to remove.

    Wet Paint:

    1. Using paper towels, wipe up as much paint as possible.

    2. Make a mixture of dish soap and warm water. Using a sponge or cloth, apply the soapy water to the area and use a circular motion. Continue scrubbing and rinsing the cloth or sponge until no more colorant can be removed.

    3. If the stain remains, spray a mild degreaser, such as Formula 409, on the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe the area with a wet soapy cloth or sponge and repeat, as needed.

    Dry Paint:

    1. Using a dull knife or metal spoon, scrape up any excess paint.

    2. Saturate the remaining paint with a solution of warm water and dish soap.

    3. Use a sponge or cloth, and rub the area in a circular motion to help lift the paint. The warm, soapy water will help life the paint.

    4. If the stain remains, spray a mild degreaser, such as Formula 409, on the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe the area with a wet soapy cloth or sponge and repeat, as needed.

  • Cleaning Materials
    Paper Towels
    Plastic Paint Scraper
    Soft Bristle Brush
    Spray Bottle With Water

    Scrape or brush off excess dry or wet clay with a plastic paint scraper or soft bristle brush. Spray area with water and continue to wipe clean with paper towels. If stain or white residue remains, repeat procedure.

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We are happy to offer stain removal suggestions as a service to consumers. While our methods were tested successfully, we can't guarantee results. Test each suggestion on an inconspicuous area first. Consult a professional cleaner if needed. Recommended brands are effective, but others may work too. Methods are for adult use only. Check containers for use and warnings.

Call 800-272-9652 weekdays between 9 AM and 4 PM ET if you have further questions.

We are happy to offer stain removal suggestions as a service to consumers. While our methods were tested successfully, we can’t guarantee results. Test each suggestion on an inconspicuous area first. Consult a professional cleaner if needed.
Recommended brands are effective, but others may work too. Methods are for adult use only. Check containers for use and warnings.

Call 800-272-9652 weekdays between 9 AM and 4 PM ET if you have further questions.