How to do Auto Body Work Paint

Thoroughly Wash Your Car.

Even though your car may look clean, there is tons of dust and grime on it. Use regular car wash soap and a soft bristle brush to get all the grime off. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies as well.

Remove all Tar, Wax & Grease.

Use a commercial brand such as Finish Pro 6000-5 Wax and Grease Remover to remove any built up wax or grease and the tar and bugs that appear from every day driving. Sand The Area To Be Painted.

I can't stress enough that this is the most important step! This is the point where goggles, dust mask and clothing to cover any exposed skin is needed. First use a heavy grit sand paper to remove any paint that is currently on the car. The more you remove the better. If you have access to a sand blaster this will ultimately be your best bet. If not, with a lot of elbow grease it will turn out just fine. Next use a fine grit sand paper to buff away any rough spots remaining. Fix All Dents.

All cars get small nicks and dents. It is important for a smooth looking finish that all dents, nicks and holes be filled in with auto putty. To do this, put a dab of putty on the dent and smooth it out with a putty knife. Let it dry according to the instructions on the packaging and then sand it smooth. Painting Prep

Once all sanding is complete and car is completely dry, take a soft cloth and wipe down the car to remove all dust left over from sanding. Next use your paper and masking tape to completely cover any areas (windows, mirrors and chrome) that you do not want to be painted. It is always better to paint your car indoors to avoid excess dust or bugs from touching the paint. If you choose to paint indoors, first ensure that there is proper ventilation. Prime Your Car.

Primer helps the paint to adhere to the car and helps to prevent chipping and peeling. It also gives a more professional looking finish. Spray primer evenly over entire vehicle. By giving an even coat you avoid drips and runs. Once primer is dry according to the instrustions on the label use a fine grit sand paper to sand the entire area focusing on any bumps. This will help to spread the primer more evenly and give a smoother finish.

Newly Painted Car Paint Your Car.

Before painting, ensure that primer is fully dry and properly sanded smooth. Serious auto painters use a spray gun tool, this can be either purchased or rented from your local tool shop. The first step to adding paint is to take your time to evenly and consistently spray on base coat and wait for it to dry based on the instructions on the paint label (about 15 minutes). Once dry, spray on another coat of paint and let dry. 2 Coats of paint is acceptable however show cars can have up to 20 coats of paint. This is your choice. After you spray ont the last coat of paint, wait approximately an hour and a half for it to be fully dry. Clear Coat Your Car.

Apply clear coat to your car evenly and consistently and let dry for 15 minutes. Apply clear coat 3 times allowing it to dry for 15 minutes between each coat. After last coat, allow to dry for at least an hour and a half if not over night which I would recommend.