ok what do i do now?

[foxbat426]

first let me say how much this forum is an inspiration to me - the pictures of the models that are posted here and in the under glass section never fail to amaze me. all you guys are true artisans!

about 3 days ago i finished putting down a really nice paint job on a 71 plymouth duster i'm doing - its glossy and smooth except for bubbles here and there (could be dust after painting or could be air bubbles) i'm very happy with it. The gloss is shiny and smooth, with no pitting. i can see my face in it. my question should i do next to finish the body off? - i would like to take some of those "dust": particles out that you see when you look at it from certain angles, but am afraid i might lose the shine etc. should i compound it?, sand it? - i'm just trying to figure out what my next step should be.

Thx, john

[SuperStockAndy]

I would sand it and clear it.

[MrObsessive]

John, you don't say what color/type you're using. If it's a solid color, and if it were my model, I would lightly rub out the dust particles using a polishing kit (3200-12,000 grit) and then polish out the model. My wax of choice is Meguiar's Car Cleaner Wax which comes in liquid form. I use a chamois cloth to wax my paint jobs BTW.........

I've been using this for over 20 years, and those who've seen my paint jobs can vouch for 'em.

If it's a metallic, then I would once again rub out the dusties (lightly) and then clear over the paint. One shouldn't rub out metallics for the most part, as rubbing and waxing can "disturb" the metallic flakes in the paint lending a mottled, swirly appearance.

After the clear has thoroughly dried, you can then rub that out as I mentioned above, and have a really nice shiny paint job. A lot of work for sure, but it's well worth the time and effort.

Hope this helps!

[High octane]

I've seen Mr.Obsessive's paint jobs and I can surely vouch for his advice, take it.

[foxbat426]

thanks all! i'll take mr. O's advice for sure, by the way it's a solid yellow enamel (testors). i used don yosts recipe for mixing with laquer thinner to get a faster dry time.