Cleaning ash/char out of engraved area on painted wood?

[Lea Mynah]

I'm having a bit of trouble with engraving painted birch ply. When I engrave over it (I mask with tape first), some of the engraved parts are darker from the char/ash, and I'm not sure how to clean it out without damaging the painted surface. Does anyone have a solution? I've tried a soft toothbrush and water, but it doesn't do much.

[Kev Williams]

replace the water with compressed air...

[Lea Mynah]

I tried that, but it's not loose or anything; it just looks like scorch/burn.

[Bruce Volden]

Can you leave the painters tape "mask" on and go at it with a brass brush? They have a couple of choices for bristle length so as not to scour through the tape.

Bruce

[Bill George]

It should not be burnt. Turn down the power or increase the speed. You just want a brown or dark brown look. List your machine and power in your signature.

[Matt McCoy]

Do you have a pic?

[Lea Mynah]

Sorry, thought I added one. It happens any time I have a pattern (this one isn't too bad). It's an Epilog Mini 30w.
IMG_7206.jpg

[Bill George]

Lea, that does not look all that great. Duh. Have you tried a vector outline first and then engraving? It looks like your trying to engrave to remove material not mark or engrave. Sorry not much help today.

[Bruce Volden]

Can you switch engraving preferences to bottom - top???


Bruce

[Kev Williams]

Try turpentine. It should emulsify the soot and char while being easy on the paint.