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How to burn out an iron paintpot

Starting off. This sequence of photographs shows the best way to go about the removal of old hardened paint on a metal paintpot (often called a paint kettle as well). In days gone by it was the first task for the new apprentice to learn and it was accepted as on of the basic skills that all professional decorators could perform. On the left you will see what you need; basically, the paintpot, an old piece of rag, white spirit or paraffin oil(but definitely not petrol), and a stir stick. You could use a metal rod but it can become hot when stuck into flames.
Step 1. Assemble the items you need before you begin (Fig 1). Pick an area where it is safe to have a fire. Before you begin ensure that you are aware of the local Health and Safety Regulations and any Environmental issues concerning controlled fires. Dont try and blame Bozzle.com after you have burnt down half the neighbourhood.
Besides the items in the photo, it would be wise to wear a mask and have water or a fire extinguisher near-by.
Step 2.Soak a small piece of rag in white spirit, turpentine substitute or paraffin oil (Fig 2). Not petrol or methylated spirits! Step 3.Set the rag alight and do not stand too close as it will quickly set the paint alight (Fig 3). You may be burning up to five or six pots at a time so the heat can become quite intense.
Step 4.When the flames start to recede a little use a long stick to help dislodge the paint from the sides and bottom of the pots (Fig 4). Remember sticks do catch fire so be careful.
Step 5. When there is a lot of loose paint burning in the pot, tip it up carefully on its side using the stick and drag out most of the loose burning paint then stand the pot upright again. Using the stick again, lift the pot onto the burning debris that you scraped out. This will help burn off the hardened paint on the outside of the pot.
Step 6. Continue poking the pot with the stick until you are happy that most of the paint has been burned off. Turn the pot upside down to extinguish any lingering flames. Do NOT throw water on the pot as it is essential that you complete the scraping and cleaning out of the pot while it is still hot.
Step 7. When all the flames have gone out begin scraping the pot. Do not touch the pot with your hands as it will still be very hot. Use a long bladed screwdriver or something similar to hold the pot in position while scraping thoroughly with a paint scraper. Any bits of paint left on the pot will come off easily as long as you scrape it while still hot. These pots cool fairly quickly so sandpaper carefully all over while the pot is still warn. It might be an advantage to wear an old pair of gloves when you do the sandpapering.
Finally, dust off the pot and if you have the time, rinse and wash the pot with clean cold water and allow to dry. At this stage you may apply a coat of shellac or patent knotting to the complete surface of the pot both inside and out. This prevents any specks of old paint or soot which may have been missed in the cleaning process contaminating your paint.