A finished paint job has a glass-like finish.
Spraying the paint and clear-coat paint onto a car is not the end of the painting process. For the best results, the paint needs to be completely finished. Finishing the paint involves sanding, buffing and polishing using precise steps, or the paint job can be ruined. The finishing process begins after the final clear coat of paint has dried completely. Following the steps can lead to a glossy, smooth, professionally finished paint job.
Instructions
1. Sand the surface of the car with 1,200-grit sandpaper. Use a running water hose to keep the sandpaper wet the entire time when sanding. This high grade of sandpaper will not cause deep scratches or go through the clear coat paint, but it will dull the surface slightly. Keep your hand flat and sand the entire surface until the paint job is dull. Rinse the car and allow it to dry completely.
2. Use a buffer with a polishing pad to apply liquid rubbing compound to the surface of the car. Pour 1/4 cup of liquid compound onto the pad and buff the car, starting at the hood and working toward the rear of the car. Apply compound as needed. Move the buffer in small circular motions, never leaving it in one place more than a few seconds as it can burn through the paint. Buff until all of the car has been buffed with the compound and the compound is no longer visible. The car's surface should appear glossy.
3. Apply car polish to a dry cotton towel. Use the towel with your hand to polish the car's surface. Work in small circular motions, in the same direction you buffed the car. The polish makes the car's paint shine. A coat of wax can be added, but is not needed.
