Pearl

[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!

[pro70z28]

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.

[vara4]

oops!

[SprayTech]

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

[Dabberdawg]

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.