- Practice First:
- Always practice using the paint off your vehicle first to avoid mistakes during the actual application. Take a little time and practice using the touch up paint before you apply it to your car. This will give you a good feel for the paint and you can check the color match. Use a surface such as a metal can, a glossy sheet of paper, etc. to practice on. Use several light coats rather than one heavy coat when brushing or spraying the paint. Make sure you let the paint dry properly. If you really want an excellent repair, don’t skip practicing!
- Surface Preparation:
- Prime all unpainted surfaces, even small chips if they are down to the metal.
- Ensure thorough preparation of the surface by sanding, priming, and re-priming until smooth, especially when spraying.
- Tool Selection:
- Paint pen vs. Brush cap bottle: Paint pens are generally easier to use and help avoid the “blobbing” common with brushes.
- Recommend purchasing a 2 oz. bottle of acrylic lacquer thinner for cleanup, particularly effective for keeping the paint pen nib clean.
- Rust Treatment:
- Use specific products like One Step Rust Converter or Rust Away to treat rusty areas before painting.
- Painting Over Existing Paint:
- It’s often necessary to sand down existing paint and apply primer to fill small scratches and imperfections.
- Sealers and Complete Jobs:
- Sealers, which are a type of primer, are recommended before a full repaint but require professional spray equipment.
- Entire vehicles can be painted, but final polishing with a power buffer is necessary to achieve the desired gloss.
- Wax and Grease Removal:
- Before painting, remove all wax using a wax and grease remover or scrub the area with detergent.
- Avoid waxing the new paint job for at least 30 days.
- Handling Paint:
- Use appropriate safety gear such as automotive paint respirators, safety goggles, and gloves when handling paint.
- If paint gets on the skin, remove it with thinner and wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
- Paint Compatibility and Limitations:
- Test paint compatibility by applying it to an inconspicuous part of the vehicle, let it dry, and check for reactions.
- Do not apply our paint over enamel paint or primer. Also, avoid spraying in direct sunlight.
- Washing Your Vehicle:
- Once the paint has dried completely, it is safe to wash your vehicle. This ensures that the new paint job is not compromised by premature cleaning.