Thread: Pearl

Tweet

I am restoring a 1977 Nova. The interior is red so I am planning on painting it white with red pearl in the clear coat. I experimented first and don't seem to have enough pearl in the clear to see it much. Does anyone know how much pearl I have to add to a gallon of clear to really sparkle? thanks!

Originally posted by turbo
I am restoring a 1977 Nova. The interior is red so I am planning on painting it white with red pearl in the clear coat. I experimented first and don't seem to have enough pearl in the clear to see it much. Does anyone know how much pearl I have to add to a gallon of clear to really sparkle? thanks!

It's been a while since I've done a pearl job, but I'd say NOT MUCH. Pearl shows up best in the sun rather than the paint booth. I"m not a fan of overdone pearl. Just a hint that there's somthin' goin' on with the paint in the sun is how I like it. Just my opinon.

If sparkle is what yer after, I like to put 1 thimble full of micro sequines in the clear. Can't tell it's there til the sun hits it. Suns reflection sparkles.

oops!

turbo,
there is really no set standard on ratio with pearls.
Its really one of those things where you have to mix-spray a coat on a practice panel, let dry look at it out side to see if its the desired effect you are looking for.
There is a happy medium , as to much pearl will look muddy and very ameturish !
Some Pearls no matter the color will start turning the clear yellow after 4 or more coats of pearl.
another thing is you need to make sure the clear w/pearl is stirred or shaken real well as it has a tendency to clod or clump together and will spray out in tiny chunks and look like dirt, and you will have to start over.
SprayTech

Sparkles vs. Pearl.
To get a good pearl effect, it does not take much. Spraytech is right, try a couple different mixs, adding a bit at a time and test a some panels. Adding some compatible bronzing powders will help it 'sparkle'. Again, not much needed as adding too much will make it look muddy. Strain and use a stir cup.