Clear coat flat black?

[lastplace29er]

I'm doing my first build and have chosen flat black for the frame. Do you seal or clear coat flat black?

FYI, I'm using spray can Krylon.

 

[Alsfelt]

You can try a satin clear. I would test it on something else first.

 

[aka_locojoe]

I wouldn't. I believe it would take away from the flat even with a satin clear. Flat is pretty durable. Just keep an extra can around for touch-ups.

 

[jeepjunky]

No clear on my flat black.

 

[deorman]

Satin black, no overcoat.

 

[patman73]

try flat clear on flat black

 

[g-ratter]

If you want to clear coat it spray a few coats of a gloss clear then a final coat of a flat clear. While this is a little different than a pure flat look it might give you the look you want with the benefit of a clear coat.

 

[Ldog33]

Leave it alone, no reason to use clear.

 

[patman73]

use one stage flat black , no need for cleat coat

 

[c.p.odom]

The trick with single stage flat black (not rattle can) is to mix the clear with the black. This is an old hot rodders trick to get a surface that can be cleaned.

 

[MIGZ]

keep it raw from the can, makes touch up so easy

 

[order99]

The trick with single stage flat black (not rattle can) is to mix the clear with the black. This is an old hot rodders trick to get a surface that can be cleaned..

Does mixing the clear coat into the flat toughen up the finish any? I'm in a similar fix as lastplace29er, only with a Black Hawk Storm Grey...the coats blend and scratches are an easy touch up, but the scratches are far too easy to come by, alas.

 

[patman73]

bike that are meant to be ridden will get scratches ,if you want show quality paint ask an auto shop or get it powder coated !

 

[c.p.odom]

Mixing clear with the flat paint helps to eliminate the annoying "chalking" when the paint is wiped down. This has been a standard old school practice for painting auto engine bays and parts.

 

[Kato]

You don't need to clear it but......my son cleared his with a satin clear and it helps protect the black from scratches quite a bit.

 

[Ichoptop]

Everyone makes a flat clear now days. I have had great luck with BarbQue paint. Its tough as nails and has been on one of mine for over 7 years now with no chalking or other issues.

 

[patman73]

try engine paiint , but you have heat cure it i think !