The difference between paint thinner and paint remover is that paint thinner dilutes paint, but does not remove it. However, paint thinners can compliment paint removers, making paint easier to remove. Paint thinners are made from chemical solvents to defuse paint, similar to lacquer thinners. Paint thinners are also great for cleaning up paint from floors, surfaces, and paintbrushes. You can use paint thinner to make paints spray-able, runny, or more translucent. But, for the opposite effect, try paint activators or additives to strengthen paint.