When it comes to capturing attention with color, Tamco Paint’s SoCal Blue Candy Pearl Basecoat delivers in every way. Painter Mike Tewell, with prep work handled by Austin Tewell, transformed this car into a dazzling head-turner using a careful, layered approach that brought out the full depth and brilliance of the candy finish.
The process started with a strong foundation, HP5311 Black DTM (Direct to Metal) Primer Kit activated with HH3100 Primer Hardener, ensuring maximum adhesion and protection for the layers to come. Next, three smooth coats of Gunmetal were applied, giving the perfect reflective undertone to amplify the candy’s glow.
Mike then laid down four coats of SoCal Blue Candy Pearl Basecoat, each one deepening the color’s richness while allowing the metallic undercoat to shimmer through. To ensure optimal flow and flawless application, HR Reducers were used throughout.
For durability and a show-quality finish, the project was sealed with HC4100 Glamour Clearcoat Kit, hardened with 76 Series Hardener, resulting in a glossy, mirror-like surface that enhances the candy’s depth. Final touches included using Paint Strainers and Wooden Mixing Sticks to keep the materials clean, consistent, and perfectly mixed.
The finished car radiates with color and craftsmanship, a striking example of what happens when skill, precision, and Tamco Paint’s premium products come together.
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Painter: Mike Tewell
Car Prepper: Austin Tewell
Tamco Products used for this look:
- HP5311 Black DTM (Direct to Metal) Primer Kit
- HH3100 Primer Hardener
- Gunmetal ( 3 coats )
- SoCal Blue Candy Pearl Basecoat ( 4 coats )
- HR Reducers
- 76 Series Hardener
- HC4100 Glamour Clearcoat Kit
- Paint Strainers
- Wooden Mixing Sticks
Optional but recommended Tamco Paint products:
- Paint Remover
- HR397 or HR397W Waterbourne Wax & Grease Remover
- HR398 Final Wipe
- Polyester Paste
- High Build Epoxy Primer Series Kit
- DTA Epoxy Primer
- Forever Seal
- Slick Silver Metallic
- HH57 Basecoat Hardener
- CC3000 Candy Carrier
- Flo N Go
- Tamco T-Cups - Spray gun cup liner system
- Finishing & Detailing
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