[my72mach1]

I recently laid my first coat of paint on my fastback. It was an inexpensive trial just to get it in one color. My question is, it came out pretty flat with the base coat, I thought maybe that was normal. Then even with a clear on top, still fairly flat looking. First thing I learned I messed up on is that I didn't use anything to remove water from the air on my compressor, could that be the only issue or is there something else I am missing? When all the body work is done and I go to do this again, I want to to turn out much better. Thanks.

[fastbck65]

What temperature range was the reducer you used on your paint? That makes a big difference. High humidity can cause "blushing" no matter what the temp range is.

The compressor definitely has to be filtered with at least two good filters/water removers. One in the line at exit and one at the end of your gun. I have a 45 degree angle (down) in my piping before my first filter so the water can run down a little before the filter even has to work.

Are you using a HVLP gun or a siphon gun? You need to get your air adjusted so the paint atomizes at its best. The type of gun you use will define your pressure setting.

Generally, base coats are kind of flat anyway. Did you do any wet sanding?

[restomod]

Is your paint a two stage paint? What color? Who mixed the paint? Was the color you picked supposed to have high gloss, in other words, did the paint match the one you ordered?

[my72mach1]

Thanks for the input guys. I think next time through I will try the water filter. I used a duplicolor paint shop paint that does not require reducing. Again, just trying to get a cheap coat on to get it in one color until I am done with the car. It was an HVLP gun by the way.