A few questions?

[chubs]

I have a bunch of hard baits that I dont use I would like to paint and modify them just to see what I could do.

What is the easiest way to get off the factory paint?

How can I cut and reshape the lip?

How can I bend the lip without breaking it off and if it does is there any way I can make a new one to replace it?

[BobP]

After trying just about everything, I use 220 sandpaper because it gives the most control. Solvents end up a mess in my experience and they will cloud the lip, and aren't really any faster. On a wood bait, be careful not to remove the finish down to raw wood. On baits where bouyancy is not a big issue, just scuff the existing finish with 400 grit and paint. You can reshape lips with a fine grit Dremel sanding drum. If you heat Lexan or plastic with a heat gun, you can manually bend it. If you use a flame, it usually ends up with soot in the lip. Yes, you can make a new lip out of polycarbonate (Lexan) or out of circuitboard (G-10 Garolite). Trace the old one on a piece of cardboard, cut it out and use it as a template for the new lip - or design your own. Cut the lip out with metal shears and sand down to the exact line with a Dremel sanding drum. It's pretty easy.

[Vodkaman]

I would get hold of some balsa and carve out some new bodies for experimentation, you will learn far more. Save the old lures for painting practice, when you buy your airbrush and compressor!

Welcome to lure builders annon.

[chubs]

Thanks guys for all the knowledge,Ive made an attempt a few times to carve out a few baits and they dont really resemble a fish or anything else that a fish might want to have for snack and Im better at carving than my painting skills!