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    Orange peel / Application of clearcoat?

    Discussion in 'Notebook Cosmetic Modifications and Custom Builds' started by Stoogepenguin, Aug 11, 2010.

  1. Stoogepenguin

    Stoogepenguin Newbie

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    Hello guys, I have a question concerning the painting of my old laptop.

    It's an Inspiron 2200 and the finish was ever so slightly textured. I followed this painting guide and took all necessary sanding and cleaning precautions:

    [Guide] Painting Patterns (with Spraypaint) - Overclock.net - Overclocking.net

    I primed with 3 coats of Halford's automotive white primer (as I would later be using red gloss), which is from a rattle can. Then I did 4 light coats of gloss black (same brand). Every time I painted I seemed to get orange peel, but then I would wetsand it down with 1200 grit and apply a new coat. Now I cannot seem to get a smooth enough finish without sanding. When I do wet-sand it takes away the gloss and looks awful :mad:

    My questions are :
    1. How can I stop this orange peel effect :confused:
    2. Should I apply clearcoat to the wet-sanded gloss black or to a non-sanded coat and then sand out any imperfections in the final clearcoat?

    I hope to post pictures when my camera decides to work :(
     
    Stoogepenguin, Aug 11, 2010
    #1
  2. bus_dr1v3r

    bus_dr1v3r Notebook Consultant

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    That guide says to wet sand with 400-600 grit, where I would recommend 1500 grit, but your 1200 will work just fine. The base color will look dull after sanding, but when you apply the clear it will shine again ;) .
     
    bus_dr1v3r, Aug 11, 2010
    #2
  3. Stoogepenguin

    Stoogepenguin Newbie

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    Awesome thanks. One more question (sorry :D )
    Would Brasso work as a rubbing compound over the clear?
     
    Stoogepenguin, Aug 12, 2010
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  4. millermagic

    millermagic Rockin the pinktop

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    You don't need rubbing compound, that might do more damage than good.

    I would wetsand with 1500 grit sandpaper. Then get some auto polish and polish the surface. It will look great.
     
    millermagic, Aug 12, 2010
    #4
  5. Stoogepenguin

    Stoogepenguin Newbie

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    Cool thanks for the help, most of the guides out there contradict each other :)
     
    Stoogepenguin, Aug 12, 2010
    #5
  6. r0b0t c0rpse

    r0b0t c0rpse Notebook Consultant

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    i would go 2000/2500/3000 on top of the 1500.

    I was never happy with the finish 1500 gave me.
     
    r0b0t c0rpse, Aug 23, 2010
    #6