Vintage Baseball Glove Forum

A friend of mine just gave me a really nice Spalding George Snuffy Stirnweiss glove. Soft leather, very strong stampings, original laces, good lining. The only flaw is paint spatter. A very fine pinpoint spatter (like castoff from a paint roller) covers the fingers and thumb. I did a search for paint removal on the forum, but didn't find anything. I intend to keep the glove in my collection, but would like to know if there is anything that can remove the paint without hurting the leather. I welcome your suggestions. Thanks in advance.

Scott

I've used paint stripper like Jasco brand for such things. They make a thick and watery version. I use the thick to pinpoint the paint spot without other areas affected. Best to not leave the stripper on too long. I clean it off with a solvent like rubbing alcohol and then treat the leather with a solution of Murphy's Oil Soap to replenish the leather. I haven't personally had the leather discolor but it is always best to test a hidden area first. If the paint has been on there a while, it can be tough to remove. Sometimes I've teased the spot with the dull edge of a spoon to give the stripped a better chance of loosening the paint.

Thanks again Mike. I was beginning to think that no one would provide an answer. Paint stripper on leather sounds a bit harsh, but I may give it a try.

Scott

For very fine paint splatters (little dots), I use the sharp little knife on a swiss army knife. It flicks right off. It will usually leave a clean spot or stripped spot there but a conditioning almost always covers them back up with a uniform look. Have had good results in the past. Haven't tried it on big spots as it would almost require you to cut it out.

JD

I just use my finger nail to tug off the smaller paint specs. It takes a little pressure but most come right off. It then needs some moisturizer or saddle soap to get the consistent color back. Rob