Choosing the Right Color for DIY Auto Painting

There are literally thousands of colors to choose from when selecting the right color for your DIY auto painting project. Walking into your local auto body store and asking for a can of blue paint, for example, is no longer a specific enough request.

The times have changed and one needs to decide on what shade of blue is required. In addition, colors are now coded and having this code can greatly reduce the time you devote in the body shop to you DIY auto painting project.

Starting with magazines and auto shows can be a fun and quick way to choose a color. Also remember to look at the paint you like under a variety of conditions as colors can often appear different when the lighting and environment change.





One excellent way to do this before you enter the store is to look at the cars driving down the street or parked in lots. Figure out the model and make while noting the color. This is quite easy given today’s smart phones with access to Google. Then go down to the paint shop and describe it to them and, more often than not, they will be able to make or find it for you instantly.

Cost is a factor for many of us and a consideration that must be made when selecting your project’s color. This is why it is a good idea to get cost estimates before prepping the car to be painted. Colors with large amounts of red or pearl will naturally be more expensive. Remember to ask how much the color, clear, hardener, hardener, reducer, and sealer are going to cost and factor that into your pricing.

It is also a good idea to pick a car that will not adversely affect resale value. It is a well known fact (and sometimes car lot joke) that cars with unusual colors or paint schemes are harder to sell. One may also consider if the color is a good match for the body style, however, to each his own.

Another important step is to consider the purpose of the new paint job. Is it a brand new look for your car? Perhaps it is to cover damage? Either way, choosing the right color involves numerous considerations. With a little luck, some research, and help from your local body shop you can make this less frustrating, freeing up more time (which you will need) for your project.

If you want to learn more about automotive customization please visit http://www.learnautobodyandpaint.com to get more information as well as a FREE 85 page e-read on auto body and paint!