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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Clear Coat for Your Project | FT Paints

A flawless paint job doesn’t stop at the basecoat — the clear coat is what protects your finish, boosts durability, and gives that professional shine (or matte look if that’s your goal). Choosing the right clear coat can be the difference between a showroom finish and a costly redo. Here’s everything you need to know 👇

🎨 1. What Is a Clear Coat & Why It Matters

The clear coat is the protective top layer that:

  • Shields your paint from UV rays ☀️
  • Adds depth and gloss ✨
  • Protects against scratches and chemicals 🛡
  • Determines the overall look of the finish (gloss, satin, or matte).

🧩 2. Types of Clear Coats

  • High-Gloss Clear – Classic mirror-like shine.
  • Matte Clear – Sleek, modern, flat finish.
  • Satin Clear – In-between sheen, versatile for both cars & industrial parts.
  • 1K vs 2K Clear –
    • 1K: Easier for small DIY jobs, air-dry only.
    • 2K: Professional-grade durability, needs activator/hardener.

⚠️ 3. Common Mistakes When Choosing Clear Coat

  • Using the wrong hardener speed for booth temps.
  • Forgetting to match the clear finish (matte vs gloss) to the project.
  • Cheap consumables ruining the end result.

🛠 4. Product Recommendations

We recommend:

  • MIPA 2K HS Clear – for a durable, glossy showroom finish.
  • MIPA Matt Clear – for that factory-style matte look.
  • Premium consumables (Mirka, Q1, Indasa) – because the clear is only as good as your prep.

🎯 5. Pro Tips for Application

  • Flash times matter ⏱ — always follow the spec sheet.
  • Use a 1.3–1.4mm tip for clears.
  • Maintain 15–20cm distance with smooth, even passes.
  • Apply 2–3 coats depending on coverage & gloss level.

🚗 6. When to Use Which Clear Coat

  • Small spot repairs → 1K or fast-drying 2K clear.
  • Full resprays → High solids 2K clear for maximum durability.
  • Industrial jobs → Satin clears for balance between shine and practicality.

✅ Final Tip

The clear coat is what seals the deal — so don’t cut corners. Use the right clear, applied correctly, and your project will not just look good, it’ll last.

💬 Need help choosing the right clear? Chat with our FT Paints team or visit us in-store. We’ll guide you to the perfect setup every time.

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