clear between base and flames?

[Sprayhappy]

I have always heard that the basecoat should be cleared, then the flames applied and cleared again, but my paint supplier told me this wasn't necessary. Maybe this was to save materials (I'm painting a forklift for work), but thats not really a concern since I get my paint for free. This will be my first flame job, and I would rather take the extra time to clear the whole thing first than risk messing up the basecoat. Am I right? Any other tips for a first timer would also be appreciated. I'm using Spies-Hecker paint. Thanks!

 

[flamethrower]

If your basecoat is a solid color (no pearl, flake, kandy, etc...) then you can scuff the basecoat and tape out the flames. Shoot the flames then clear the whole thing. But you shouldn't sand or scuff directly on the pearls and flakes or you'll ruin your basecoat. So if you're shooting these you should clear them before scuffing to tape out the flames.

 

[Sprayhappy]

I'm spraying Corvette Electron Blue as the base (metallic and some pearl), so I'll clear it first before doing the flames. Thanks, I should have specified the color in the original post. I hope to have some pictures to post next week.

 

[big stinkie]

I generally clear prior to flames, but my reason is because of time. I use PPG which suggests that you clear or re-coat the base within 24 hours or you could experience an adhesion problem. Usually I don't have enough time to base, then tape out flames, paint and clear within that time window. Clearing it first give me as long as I want to wait for the next step.

Also, if you clear first and make a mistake with your flames you can wipe the flames off with reducer and start over. The reducer doesn't touch the clear so you save your original basecoat. If your clear is real fresh the reducer might take some of it off, so best to wait a few days. I won't tell you how I know that, but trust me...

Andy aka Big Stinkie

 

[imported_Allen]

It's been a while since I last posted! Anywayz, do you have to use an intercoat clear between the base and flames or can you use your final cleacoat as a interclear? Also I am getting ready to paint a friends bike and my question is how would I prep the surface of the tank and fenders for a white base? It has a white paint job on it now and the paint is only 1 year old? He want a white base with red flames and a pearl over it all. Any info would help!Thanks Allen

 

[TWISTED]

Allen, If the white base is in good shape and it is the color he wants (amazing how many different whites there are) Then you should be able to scuff it with grey scotch brite pad and water and do your flames.
Final clear can be used as an intercoat.

 

[jhawkbb]

Originally posted by big stinkie:
I generally clear prior to flames, but my reason is because of time. I use PPG which suggests that you clear or re-coat the base within 24 hours or you could experience an adhesion problem. Usually I don't have enough time to base, then tape out flames, paint and clear within that time window. Clearing it first give me as long as I want to wait for the next step.

Also, if you clear first and make a mistake with your flames you can wipe the flames off with reducer and start over. The reducer doesn't touch the clear so you save your original basecoat. If your clear is real fresh the reducer might take some of it off, so best to wait a few days. I won't tell you how I know that, but trust me...

Andy aka Big Stinkie

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[jhawkbb]

Message for big stinkie (Andy). Ran into this web site today and noticed you are very close to me. I live in Wellsville, just down to road from you. I have Suzuki 1500 Intruder that I am thinking about repainting with flames. Can't afford to have someone do it ($1000-$1500) so I am thinking about doing myself. Would appreciate any tips you can give.
This my fisrt post on the board so I don't know if I am doing this exactly right.

Thanks
Larry

 

[TAZ]

Sorry Larry,
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