How to Paint a Car With a Satin Finish

Automotive paints are becoming more custom than ever before. Several finishes are now available, including a satin finish. A car with a satin finished paint job can really stand out from a crowd of regular paint jobs.

Things You'll Need

  • Spray gun
  • Air compressor
  • Dual action sander
  • Wax and grease remover
  • Rag
  • Sand paper
  • Respirator mask
  • Masking tape and paper
  • Automotive primer
  • Single-stage satin paint
  • Tape off any areas of the car that won't be painted. Use paper to cover things like the windshield, windows, wheels, mirrors, trim parts, headlights, tail lights, grill.

  • Sand the car using a dual action sander and 500 grit sand paper. Sand until the car is smooth and the finish is dull. Wipe the car down with wax and grease remover a few times to remove all dust and fingerprints.

  • Spray the car with three thin coats of primer. Allow each coat 30 minutes to dry before applying the next coat.

  • Sand the top layer of primer with 800 grit sand paper. Keep the sand paper wet the entire time. Sand until the car is smooth and dull. Wipe the car down with wax and grease remover.

  • Spray the satin paint on the car using four light coats. Start at the front of the car and work towards the rear, keeping all strokes horizontal. Allow each coat 30 minutes to dry before applying the next coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before touching or driving it.