Thinning Touch Up Paint

  • Ready to Spray:
    • Pints, quarts, and gallons of our paint come ready to spray, so no additional thinning is necessary for these sizes.
  • Thinning Smaller Quantities:
    • When using a 2 oz. size in a spray gun, you must thin the basecoat and midcoat 1:1 with automotive lacquer thinner (specifically not the type sold at general hardware stores like Home Depot).
    • Clearcoat should be thinned typically with 1 to 2 parts thinner to one part clearcoat, though you should always check the label for specific instructions.
  • Spraying Equipment:
    • You can use a regular automotive spray gun, an airbrush, or a Preval sprayer, which is available at most auto parts stores.
  • Regulations and Recommendations:
    • Note that in certain areas, such as parts of California, automotive lacquer thinner is illegal to use. Always check local regulations before use.
    • Basemaker can also be used as a thinner (reducer) at a 1:1 ratio, with different types available for varying temperature ranges (e.g., DUP7175S for temperatures up to 75°F). These should be purchased locally.
  • Clearcoat and Primer:
    • The clearcoat will need to be thinned 1:1 with automotive lacquer thinner.
    • The primer sold is ready to spray and does not require thinning.
  • Adjustments and Testing:
    • The 1:1 thinning ratio is a general guideline. Always test the spray pattern first. If the paint appears too thick or stringy, adjust by adding more thinner and retesting the spray pattern.