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Auto-Air Colors™ is the pioneer brand of water-based, custom colors and airbrush paints. Proven, durable and brilliant, Auto-Air Colors are continually developed with the latest technologies and materials. Auto-Air Colors is the largest, most progressive VOC compliant custom automotive paint in the world. Check out our latest developments such as 4030 Balancing Clear - a urethane, mix additive for creating acrylic-urethane hybrid paint that performs better than traditional solvent-based paints.
Pearlescent and Metallic Colors are pearl base coats. For graphics and base coat application, they’re best applied as a mid-coat over a color-keyed AutoBorne Sealer base.
Start with a color-keyed AutoBorne Sealer for best orientation. Auto Air Pearlescent & Metallic Colors lay down flat with an even pearlescent orientation when applied over a color-keyed base color as opposed to a white or black base. By color – keying with the base color, less material is required which reduces the build-up of pearlescent that creates a mottled, splotchy finish. Using minimal amounts of pearlescent is key to achieving an even pearlescent finish. It is also important to allow for adequate drying time in between coats of Pearlescent & Metallic Colors so that each coat lays down in an even pattern. If the underlying coat is still tacky, the next coat’s pearlescent will accumulate along the underlying coat’s pearlescent pattern and develop channels of pearl which will create a mottled appearance. Color-keying the Pearlescent Colors with the underlying base color saves not only material, but allows for quicker drying times due to less material per coat and an even orientation in the finish.
On average, 2 – 3 coats are required for complete coverage. Orientation will benefit from a drop-coat after full coverage has been achieved. Reduce psi by 7 – 10psi and apply a single, cross pattern coat.
Allow each coat ample time to dry. When the pearlescent powder in the underlying coat is truly dry, the next, wet coat’s pearlescent powder will not accentuate the underlying pattern resulting in “channeling” of pearlescent in the finish. Applying a well-orientated coat in an even and consistent spray pattern that is properly atomized is essential to a achieving a great finish. Using with a color-keyed AutoBorne Sealer makes this much easier when painting helmets, bikes, cars and any large paintjob.
Pearlescent and Metallic Colors are best applied with a large tip-sized airbrush or spray-gun. Refer to Hard Surface Application Guide for further application information.
For technical support regarding issues not covered online or in our Auto Air Technical Guide or any product related issues:
Generally, 4030 is added in greater amounts to candy2o when using a spray-gun compared with an airbrush.
Both 4011 and 4012 can be used to thin candy2o after mixing with 4030. 4012 is faster compared to 4011.
Stop Bleeding by applying 4040 Bleed Checker over candy2o to prevent bleeding [leaching] of the dyes into top-coated colors.
Auto-Air Colors and its corporate likeness are trademark protected identities of Createx Distribution, LLC.