Plasti Dip is the latest trend in vehicle make-overs and is being used by amateurs and professionals alike. With a wide range of effects/finishes available it is possible to create the look that you desire. You can wrap/dip a whole car or use Plasti Dip to accent details on the exterior or interior of your vehicle. It is durable, but you have the option of removing it at a later date without damaging your original paintwork.

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For the first-timers out there, here is the lowdown on how to achieve your vehicle make-over without breaking the bank!

The transformation is as easy as this…

Benefits of using Plasti Dip to transform the look of your vehicle

      Protects your original paintwork
      Reduces water ingress
      Covers rust
      Is cost effective
      Suitable for all skill levels
      Can be removed at a later date if required

Tools needed

      Spray Gun – Earlex MS2901 has been specifically designed for use with Plasti Dip or you can use an electric airless sprayer or if using spray cans a spray can handle is a worthwhile purchase
      Approx 5 litres of Plasti Dip and the same quantity of Plasti Dip Thinners for a medium-size car
      Masking tape, cardboard and sheets
      Stanley knife or razor blade
      Dust and dirt free area

Preparation of spraying area

          Cleaning to ensure the work area is free of dust and dirt is very important
          Indoors or outdoors is fine

Be aware that the application of Plasti Dip in a cold environment will slow down the curing process but shouldn’t affect the application.

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Preparation of Vehicle

          Completely clean your vehicle paying particular attention to crevices
          A traffic film remover is advisable
          Completely allow your vehicle to dry (or use an air compressor) before commencing spraying
          Mask the windscreen and other areas you don’t want painted to save time later and this saves on product too
          Remember to cover the brakes, wheels, and transmissions, intercooler and radiator to protect them

First Coat

          Apply a light layer first…a “mist coat” with about 50% transparency to aid bonding of the following coats
          Be methodical in your approach, painting panel by panel
          Each coat will take approximately half an hour to dry (weather and temperature permitting)
          4 to 5 layers will give you the perfect durable finish (whilst allowing easy removal when you decide to peel the Plasti Dip off)

Final stages

          Whilst the Plasti Dip is curing clear the area and clean your equipment thoroughly (flush your spray gun with thinners)
          Test that the Plasti Dip has fully dried/cured by scoring it in an inconspicuous area
          The fun part is removing any unwanted Plasti Dip from areas that you might not have masked e.g. lights, mirrors and door handles…to do this score around them with a Stanley knife or blade, then peel off the unwanted Plasti Dip (very therapeutic)!
          If you have applied enough layers it will peel off easily, but any areas that are too thin to peel off cleanly can be removed using thinners on a lint free cloth
          It is advisable to wait a few days before washing your Plasti Dipped vehicle to allow it to cure fully.
          If you have opted for the matt finish the surface will appear slightly textured.

Other Options

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      You can apply an additional topcoat of Glossifier, Metalizer or Pearlizer for a different effect
      For the more adventurous coloured Chameleon or Holographic Flakes can be added to a topcoat of Glossifier or Clear Matt Plasti Dip for a stunning effect that can be as subtle or intense as you choose. Flakes are available in a kaleidoscope of colours.
      The application process for these is as follows;

1) Prepare as normal
2) Apply 3-4 coats of Plastidip Multi Purpose Coating
3) Stir Flakes thoroughly into Glossifier or Clear Matt Plastidip
4) Apply the Flake Mixture, allowing approximately 20 to 30 minutes drying time between layers, until you achieve the desired effect
5) If you wish… Apply a final coat of Glossifier without Flake to achieve a high gloss finish and to protect the Flake coat.

Tips

          In order to prevent clogging use a 1.4mm nozzle size or above with your spray gun
          As a guide only; mix 30 grams Flake per 1 litre of Glossifier/Plasti Dip
          The density of the Flake coat can be altered by increasing the ratio of Chameleon Flake per litre
          Agitate the mixture regularly during the spraying process to ensure the flakes are evenly distributed
          If you require help with your spraying technique there are many tips available on YouTube.
          We would advise that you spray a test piece before embarking on your project to ensure the desired effect is achieved

What are you waiting for!?