Dampen a cloth rag with mineral spirits. Do not soak the rag. Wring the rag out if you see spirits dripping from the rag. Apply mineral spirits to the paint using the rag. Allow the spirits to soak for 15 to 20 seconds.
Cover the wide scraping end of a plastic putty knife with a dry, clean rag. Scrape the paint from the brass using the plastic putty knife. Use the rag as a buffer between the scraper and the brass fixture. Do not use a metal scraper as this could scar the brass.
More Information:
Popular Mechanics: 5 Pro Painting Tips Every Amateur Should Know
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/2076834
