Pearl in Clear

[Brushman]

I am painting a motorcycle with a black base and would like to add some pearl to clear and spray some flames, then clear over the whole thing with clean clear. My question is how much pearl should I add to clear? I don't want the flames to show until the light hits it.

I'm sure you know what effect I'm trying to get.

I'm using "Color Horizons Aerolac Pearl" comes in a little jar.

Thanks for the help...

 

[rex]

I'm not familiar with that pearl but you'll have to experiment.Use a basecoat clear to do it with also,much easier.Take say 1/2 a pint of clear and throw a dash of pearl in it ,reduce it and spray it over a black test panel.Go easy on the pearl because it'll show easy on black and lose the serious ghosting you're going for.A 1/4 level teaspoon in that mix is probably close to start and maybe a touch weak with the dry pearl I use.If you can,make it a one coat deal so the tape edge is minimal.

 

[Brushman]

What do you mean by "basecoat clear"

 

[Stretch]

Most paint manufacturers make a basecoat clear, also known as intercoat clear or blending clear. These basecoat clears are simply a 'clear' paint made for mixing pearls or candies into. They don't require a catalyst like most topcoat clears so they're easier to deal with. You can also use the intercoat clears to protect a basecoat before taping flames.

Hope that helps-Stretch

 

[Brushman]

Thanks for your help..Maybe I'll paint my helmet first to see how that goes.
One other question..I will be primering over a combination of Bondo, orignal clear coat and bear metal. What kind of primer will work for all three?

 

[rex]

HOK just brought out a new primer that I believe will work fine and the price is reasonable.The only ones in PPG that will handle all 3 duties are DP or NCP270 or 271.DP isn't the best choice because it stays soft a long time.Using the basecoat clear will leave a much thinner tape edge and will control the pearl better,topcoat clear with pearl or color in it will mottle easily which means there's more pearl in one spot and less in another all over the place.High metallic colors are bad about it if you hose it on.

 

[Brushman]

Thanks once again..