How Do You Remove Pen Ink From Paper Using Acetone?
Removing pen ink from paper is referred to as “washing.” Many different methods exist, depending on the type of ink and paper. Conservators and law enforcement agents have developed a long list of intricate methods for removing and detecting the removal of all types of inks. With acetone and a few other common household items, you, too, can remove a wide variety of inks from paper. Place the newspaper on a flat surface, and put on the latex gloves. Pour 2 oz. bleach into a container, then pour 2 oz. acetone or nail polish remover into a second container. Dip one of the cotton swabs into the bleach, and gently apply it to the ink to be removed. Dip another cotton swab into the acetone or nail polish remover, and apply it to the ink. The ink should immediately begin to fade. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 if the ink does not fade completely, but with smaller amounts of both solutions on fresh cotton swabs. This is to protect the paper, since it will already be damp.
