DIY Chunky Flake

[Natman123]

Hey all, I am looking to do a sparkle/glitter finish for my next build and trying to decide how to apply it (think bass boat). I have a handful of finishing jobs under my belt and looking for the next level... I do realize this is a bit more advanced and am willing to invest in some spray gear to get this one done.

Right now am thinking urethane with dye to tint it but considering all possible options. I guess my first question should be: what kind of spray kit is recommended? I want to keep the cost down, so are any of the cheaper hvlp guns on Amazon usable? Also what kind of compressor is ideal?

While we're at it, can you share recommendations on a good urethane or other clear that will build nicely to bury chunky flakes?

 

[TonyFlyingSquirrel]

Hey all, I am looking to do a sparkle/glitter finish for my next build and trying to decide how to apply it (think bass boat). I have a handful of finishing jobs under my belt and looking for the next level... I do realize this is a bit more advanced and am willing to invest in some spray gear to get this one done.

Right now am thinking urethane with dye to tint it but considering all possible options. I guess my first question should be: what kind of spray kit is recommended? I want to keep the cost down, so are any of the cheaper hvlp guns on Amazon usable? Also what kind of compressor is ideal?

While we're at it, can you share recommendations on a good urethane or other clear that will build nicely to bury chunky flakes?

Research, research, research!

Glitter takes loads and loads of clear to get a level finish. Spraying the glitter requires the right sprayer/parts due to the particle sizes. For this reason, I will never do a glitter finish on my own. I love th3 look, don’t get me wrong, but to do it right, Warmoth’s paint department wins that bid! Best value for the $krilla!

 

[Scott]

I am starting a new jazzcaster body with a flake finish. I am using createx colors UVLS 4050 water base urathane, Roth metal flake, and a Roth loose cannon gun (3.0 tip). So far I like what I am seeing. I have done 2 other flake bodies using a water based lacquer. They look good but the water based lacquer dries very slow and it is a little softer than expected. It has held up fine after a year and a half though.
So far I can tell the 4050 will be harder and dries much faster. I am only 4 coats in though ( and far from being a finishing expert). I am doing silver flake, then adding a candy additive for the overcoat.

Here are the first 2 bodies. The small one was to practice on (it cost $70 new and I cut the neck down to turn it into a tenor). The Bass is warmoth body and neck.

 

[Scott]

Here is the WIP. Just a word of warning if you decide to DIY a flake finish, you will find flakes everywhere for quite some time.