Painting jobs that require a base and clear coat are more complicated than those with acrylic enamel because paints have a tendency to drip. This article tells you how to achieve a perfect glossy finish.
Steps
Step 1. Remove or tape all windows and accessories that do not need to be painted from the vehicle
Anything you don't want to paint should be removed to avoid accidents.
Step 2. Remove the old paint where it is needed
You can use a chemical stripper or just sand the surface. If the old paint layer is in good condition, then you can just sand it with 360 sandpaper. You should reach for the bare metal.
Step 3. Spray the primer where you need to paint
All surfaces that you plan to paint must be coated with a layer of primer before proceeding with the work. Wait until it is completely dry.
Step 4. Clean the surface
You can use a specific solvent to remove all traces of grease, wax or oil.
Step 5. Spray the entire surface with the base paint
Keep the airbrush 15-25 cm from the body and apply the paint with uniform movements; each pass should overlap the previous one by 50%. Check the paint manufacturer's instructions for drying times before sanding.
Step 6. With the wet sandpaper, sand the base paint until you get a smooth surface
If you used a metallic color it could be a bad idea because the sanding removes the small metal flakes inside the paint.
Step 7. Spray the entire body with clearcoat
Wait until it is completely dry before sanding.
Step 8. Use a polisher with some polishing paste
Make your work brilliant!
Advice
- When the first coat of paint has dried, apply a second coat. Try to spray many thin coats to prevent the paint from dripping and dripping onto the surface. Do the same thing with the clear coat as well.
- Use a rubber block for sanding. It allows you to apply constant pressure over the entire surface; you can buy it in DIY stores, hardware stores and auto parts.
- A base of 2-3 coats should suffice. Make sure that the paint solvents evaporate "quickly" to avoid problems in the drying phase.
- A high pressure spray prevents dripping and improves the quality of the clear coat flow.
- Don't just dip the sandpaper in water. Let it soak for a minute or two to get it wet properly.
- The "evaporation" time of the solvent varies according to the type of paint. A rest time of 5-10 minutes between one coat and the other is recommended, depending on the temperature of the environment. A matte finish is a sign that the thinner has evaporated.
- If you make mistakes (like an uneven spray) you can always correct them by sanding the area again and starting over.
Warnings
- Metallic paint fumes are toxic.
- Do not sand with dry or coarse sandpaper. You should purchase 2000 or greater sandpaper. In this way you avoid leaving streaks on the finishing base and at the same time eliminate bumps, old flaking paint and "orange peel" surfaces.
