(For Investigating Historic Paint Colors class)
Choose an out-of-the-way location on a surface with a substantial amount of paint buildup, such as baseboard trim near a corner or behind a piece of furniture, or a protected exterior spot such as under a window sill. Vertical surfaces tend to have more intact layers than horizontal surfaces. Using an Xacto knife or sharp utility knife, cut all the way down to the wood and carefully pry off a small sample . An angled cut will help expose paint layers. The sample needs not be larger than the size of a dime. Place it into a zip-top bag or envelope and label it.
CAUTION: You should assume your sample contains lead paint. Clean the sample area with a damp cloth after removing the sample and wash your hands afterwards.

Lead Safety
For general lead safety information, click here to download “Lead Paint Safety: A Field Guide for Painting, Home Maintenance, and Renovation Work”, published by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control.