Blending in three-coat lacquer

Even the most careful drivers can have minor collisions and fender benders, which can cause sleepless nights. In the case of minor damage, spot repairs are often performed, which in most cases end with shading. For a good result, it is extremely important to ensure that the colour of the car is uniform across the entire surface during the repair, and that the transition between the new and old layers is invisible. This effect can be achieved thanks to the shading technique. To learn more about this topic, please watch the attached instructional video, which presents the entire process in detail.

Car paint shading - what is it?

It is a special surface reconstruction technique used when repairing damaged car parts. Its purpose is to reduce the visual difference between the new and old colours. It is also a term used to describe the process of covering the transition that occurs when performing local repairs. When done correctly, it guarantees a smooth and imperceptible transition from the old surface to the new one.

Three-layer paint shading - when is it worth it?

It is most often performed when we are dealing with a small area and want to minimise the difference in colour between the repaired parts and the rest of the bodywork. This step can be omitted when, for example, the bonnet or the entire side of the car needs to be repaired. The difference in shades is also hardly noticeable on horizontal surfaces, such as the front fenders. This procedure does not need to be carried out in less visible areas, but car shading is performed in the vast majority of all body repairs.

Painting, shading - types

There are two types of shading - on a single vehicle component and on adjacent components. If only a part of the car is damaged, e.g. part of a mudguard, this process is sufficient within the repaired component. However, if, for example, a scratch covers a larger area or several elements, it is necessary to cover all damaged body parts in order to reduce the colour difference to an absolute minimum.

Paint shading - necessary tools, equipment and supplies

Due to the multi-stage nature of the process, it is necessary to obtain the appropriate equipment. The basic products needed to achieve the optimal effect are:

• spray gun - e.g. HVLP spray gun with a pressure gauge to control the spray pressure,
• acrylic primer,
• silicone remover (or wipes soaked in silicone remover),
• blender (shading resin),
• clear coat,
• hardener,
• shading thinner.

When working with a three-coat paint system, it is also advisable to protect your clothing and wear a special coverall. Remember to protect your eyes and mouth.

Car painting, shading - how to prepare the vehicle?

Proper preparation of the car is the key to quick and efficient repairs, as well as a guarantee of high-quality results. The parts you will be working on should be easily accessible and the rest of the area should be well protected. The most commonly used masking materials are plastic film, e.g. painting film, or paper, which is attached to the car with tape. This ensures that the rest of the vehicle does not get dirty.

How to shade the paint?

We would like to point out that in order to achieve a smooth transition, it is worth performing all steps very carefully. Start by cleaning the surface on which you will be working. Once the surface has been properly prepared and the remaining parts of the vehicle have been protected, we can start working with the 3-layer product. We start by using an acrylic primer, followed by a silicone remover or wipes soaked in silicone remover, which we apply to the selected part of the car body.

How to properly apply a three-layer paint?

First, apply one layer of blender - a resin for shading. When working with a three-layer paint, start with the first layer of primer, then apply the second and third layers. Next, focus on the top coats, of which there are also three. The final stage involves mixing the clear coat with the hardener. Then apply this mixture to the selected area. Repeat this step after 5 minutes. The final stage is to use a thinner. In addition, in the case of effect colours, remember about dropping - the final finishing coat applied at reduced pressure.