1. Chemical paint stripper

First you could try a chemical paint stripper. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when using chemical strippers, as they are toxic and may require protective equipment such as gloves and goggles.

2. Acetone

Acetone is a nail polish remover and can also be used to remove lacquer from brass. Soak a rag with acetone, rub it on the brass surface until the lacquer softens. Continue until all of the lacquer wears off. 

3. Boiling water

Another method is to remove lacquer from brass by soaking the brass item in boiling water. Boil a pot of water with the brass items inside until the lacquer softens and can be scrubbed off. 

4. Heat gun

Use the heat gun to heat up the brass. The heat can soften the lacquer for it to be removed more easily. 

5. Sandpaper

If nothing else works, you may have to use sandpaper. This method is fool-proof however it is labourous and time-consuming. We recommend to give the other methods a try before you resort to using sandpaper. 

 

If you have not purchased your handles, it is the most ideal to buy new unlacquered brass handles