How To Spray Metal Flake in 6 EASY Steps

🎨 What Is Metal Flake Paint?

Metal flake paint incorporates tiny metallic particles into the paint, creating a sparkling effect that catches the light. This technique is popular in custom automotive painting, musical instruments, and various DIY projects.

🛠️ Tools & Materials You’ll Need

• Spray Gun: An HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray gun is ideal for even application.
• Metal Flakes: Choose from various sizes and colors to achieve your desired effect.
• Intercoat Clear: A clear basecoat that helps suspend the metal flakes evenly.
• Topcoat Clear: Protects the metal flakes and adds depth to the finish.
• Mixing Cups & Sticks: For accurate measurements and thorough mixing.
• Protective Gear: Respirator mask, gloves, and goggles for safety.

🧪 Step-by-Step Guide to Spraying Metal Flake Paint

1. Prepare the Surface

• Clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or contaminants.
• Sand the area to create a smooth, even surface for better adhesion.
• Apply a primer if necessary, and let it dry completely.

2. Apply Basecoat

• Choose a base color that complements your metal flakes.
• Apply the basecoat evenly using your spray gun.
• Allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Mix Metal Flakes with Intercoat Clear

• In a mixing cup, combine the intercoat clear with your chosen metal flakes.
• A common ratio is one 8th of metal flakes per quart of sprayable intercoat clear, but this can vary based on desired intensity.
• Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flakes.

4. Spray the Metal Flake Mixture

• Using your HVLP spray gun, apply the metal flake mixture in even, overlapping passes.
• Maintain a consistent distance from the surface to ensure uniform coverage.
• Apply multiple coats as needed, allowing each coat to flash off before applying the next.

5. Apply Topcoat Clear

• Once you’re satisfied with the metal flake coverage, apply a topcoat high solids clear to protect the finish.
• Apply 2-3 coats, allowing appropriate drying time between each.
• After the final coat, let the surface cure completely.

6. Finishing

This is where you have to decide whether you’re going to go with the color of the flake or you’re going to candy over it. If you’re going to candy over it, you’ll wet sand with 500grit (don’t break through your clear or it’ll strip color from the flake) and then prep for the candy paint to be sprayed on top.

If you’re not going to candy follow these steps:

• For an ultra-smooth finish, wet sand the cured clear coat with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 500-1000 grit).
• Apply 2-3 coats of that same topcoat clear, allowing it to flash off between coats.
• This will remove all orange peel texture and leave you with a glassy smooth finish.

💡 Tips for Success

• Test First: Always test your mixture on a sample panel to ensure the desired effect.
• Clean Equipment: Metal flakes can be abrasive; clean your spray gun thoroughly after use.
• Safety First: Always wear appropriate protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area.