How do I Buy Candy-Colored Car Paint?

Candy Apple Red has been used for many years.

Candy color is a system used to intensify and deepen a paint job. This process has been available for many years, but advancements in auto paint technology have taken it to a higher level. New candy systems are so intense, only a few drops of the candy color may be needed. Candy systems add a new dimension to standard auto paint work and require extra planning.

Instructions

1. Spray a number of test panels and select the base coat color. Samples of base coat, clear coat and candy color are available. A black base with yellow candy over it will have a different appearance than yellow over a silver base. Add candy color to the clear coat as well. A few drops of the deeply intense candy color placed in the clear coat can give added depth to the paint.

2. Spray a complete system test panel and rate the product. High-quality paint products can be extremely expensive. Yellow and red are especially costly. Do not purchase only the candy intensifier. Purchase the entire system from one manufacturer. It is important to not mix and match products from different manufacturers. Results become unpredictable when doing so.

3. Purchase the system and paint your project. Keep in mind that many painters typically spray five or ten light coats of candy-tinted clear to add extra sparkle. This adds up quickly in material needs. Calculate the base materials, such as primers and sealers, as well. A seal coat is essential before using the candy system.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the temperature is above 60 degrees and the humidity is above 50 percent before starting any auto spray paint job.

• Wear a respirator. Clear coat will harden in your lungs. Wear protective clothing.

References

• House of Kolor: Kandy Koncentrate Intensifiers
• Alsa: Candy Concentrate