
Creating a custom paint scheme for your Dirt Late Model car in iRacing is a fun way to express yourself and make your car stand out on the track. While designing a paint scheme can be daunting if you're a beginner, with the right tools and some creativity, you can create an eye-catching design. You can choose to design from scratch or use a pre-made template, and then export your design to iRacing using a .tga file format. There are several things to consider when creating your paint scheme, such as achieving the right balance between complexity and simplicity, ensuring good contrast between colours, and placing patterns that flow well with the lines of the car. You can also add custom car liveries to iRacing using third-party services like Trading Paints, or request a custom scheme from fellow iRacers on the iRacing forums.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Design | Choose from pre-made templates, create your own design from scratch, or find inspiration from other paint schemes. |
| Tools | Graphics editor such as Photoshop or GIMP, Adobe Photoshop layered PSD files |
| Process | Decide on the focal point of the design, usually at the front of the car, and ensure patterns flow well with the lines of the car. |
| Exporting | Use a .<co: 7,10>tga file format and upload to the "Paint" tab in the iRacing garage. |
| Customization | iRacing offers pre-defined patterns and colors, or users can create their own custom schemes or use those created by others. |
| Sharing | Share custom designs with other members by including your customer ID in the file name. |
| Decals | Apply all decals and other elements, then merge all layers into a single layer. |
| Finishing | Remove masking carefully, then apply a final coat of clear coating to protect the paint. |
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What You'll Learn
- Choose a design: pre-made template, create from scratch, or adapt an existing scheme
- Use graphics editors like Photoshop or GIMP to export your design to a .tga file
- Apply your design to your car in iRacing via the 'Paint' tab in the garage
- Ensure contrast: colours should be distinct and not too similar or close in value
- Consider complexity: strike a balance between simplicity and complexity for visual appeal

Choose a design: pre-made template, create from scratch, or adapt an existing scheme
When it comes to choosing a design for your dirt late model iRacing paint scheme, you have a few options: using a pre-made template, creating your own design from scratch, or adapting an existing scheme. Each option has its own advantages and considerations:
Pre-made Template
If you're short on time or looking for convenience, iRacing offers a range of pre-made templates that you can use as a starting point. These templates are designed to be easily customisable, allowing you to tweak colours, numbers, and sponsors to match your preferences. You can access these templates through the iRacing UI or third-party services like Trading Paints. This option is ideal if you want a quick and straightforward way to personalise your car without starting from scratch.
Create from Scratch
For those who want complete creative freedom, you can choose to create your own design from scratch. This option requires more time and effort but allows you to have a truly unique paint scheme. To create your own design, you'll need an art program compatible with Adobe Photoshop layered PSD files, such as Photoshop or GIMP. Ensure your output size for car paint files is either 1024 x 1024px or 2048 x 2048px. You can then download the template for the specific car you want to customise and start designing. Keep in mind that some layers in the template should be left alone, while others can be painted over.
Adapt an Existing Scheme
If you're looking for inspiration or a base to build upon, you can choose to adapt an existing paint scheme. You can find custom paint schemes created by other users or use the in-built paint booth in the iRacing app to choose from a selection of presets. From there, you can modify colours, add sponsor decals, or make other adjustments to make the design your own. This option strikes a balance between customisation and convenience, as you can build upon an existing design rather than starting from nothing.
Regardless of the option you choose, iRacing provides flexibility in customising your dirt late model paint scheme. Whether you use a pre-made template, create from scratch, or adapt an existing scheme, you can personalise your car to reflect your style and preferences.
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Use graphics editors like Photoshop or GIMP to export your design to a .tga file
When creating a dirt late model iRacing paint scheme, one of the first steps is to choose a design. You can use a pre-made template, create your own design from scratch, or find inspiration from other paint schemes. If you're new to paint scheme design, using a pre-made template can be a great starting point. There are numerous templates available online, both free and paid.
Once you've finalized your design, you'll need to export it to iRacing. iRacing uses a proprietary file format called the .tga file format. To export your design to a .tga file, you'll need to use a graphics editor like Photoshop or GIMP. These programs allow you to work with layers and create complex designs.
When using Photoshop or GIMP, you can merge all the layers into a single layer to create a single image file for your paint scheme. This simplifies the process and allows for easier editing. Additionally, pay attention to the focal point of your design. Usually placed at the front of the car, this is where the most eye-catching pattern or colour will be positioned. Ensure your patterns flow well with the lines of the car, avoiding a disjointed or unbalanced look.
After finalising your design, you can import it into iRacing by going to the "Paint" tab in the garage. From there, select your design and apply it to your car. Remember to name your TGA file correctly, including your customer ID, so that your paint scheme can be shared with other members.
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Apply your design to your car in iRacing via the 'Paint' tab in the garage
Once you have designed your paint scheme, you will need to export it to iRacing. iRacing uses a proprietary file format called the .tga file format. To export your design to a .tga file, you will need to use a graphics editor such as Photoshop or GIMP.
After exporting your design, you can import it into iRacing by going to the “Paint” tab in the garage. From here, select your design and apply it to your car. You can change your paint scheme as many times as you like and whenever you want. Just remember to save it by clicking the save button.
If you use a custom scheme, create a paint scheme in the built-in pattern system so that people who don't want or have custom paint schemes won't see white, unpainted cars. Creating one in the same colour can be helpful in situations where you are referred to by car colour.
You can also use a third-party service called Trading Paints, which works with iRacing. You can upload your custom scheme or download other drivers' cars so that you can see their custom schemes while racing.
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Ensure contrast: colours should be distinct and not too similar or close in value
Creating a paint scheme for a dirt late model iRacing car is a great way to express yourself and make your car stand out on the track. When choosing colours and patterns, it's important to ensure that your colours are distinct and not too similar or close in value to achieve a visually appealing design.
Contrast
Contrast is key when selecting colours for your dirt late model iRacing paint scheme. You want your colours to complement each other well and create a clear, visible design. Avoid colours that are too similar or close in value, as they can make your scheme appear washed out or muddy. For example, if you choose a light blue, pair it with a darker shade or a different colour family to create a striking contrast. This will make your car stand out on the track and make it easier for others to spot your design.
Colour Selection
The colours you choose will also dictate your pattern placement. Select colours that balance well together and distribute them evenly throughout the car to avoid a flat-looking scheme. Create a focal point by using a contrasting colour or pattern to draw attention and make your design pop. For example, if you have a predominantly red car, add a yellow stripe or accent to create a bold statement.
Complexity
When designing your dirt late model iRacing paint scheme, it's important to find a balance between complexity and simplicity. A simple design may not catch much attention, while an overly complex scheme might be challenging to decipher on the track. Aim for a visually appealing design that is not overly cluttered. You can achieve this by using distinct colours that contrast well and placing patterns and accents strategically.
Customisation
The beauty of creating your own dirt late model iRacing paint scheme is the ability to customise it to your liking. You can start with a pre-made template or design it from scratch. If you're new to paint scheme design, using a template can provide a great foundation for customisation. You can change the colours, add patterns or accents, and make it unique to your taste. With the right tools and creativity, you can design a head-turning paint scheme that showcases your personality and style.
Community
The iRacing community values unique paint schemes, as they add thrill and diversity to the races. Custom paint schemes allow users to showcase their creativity and feel more connected to the game. By designing your own dirt late model iRacing paint scheme, you become part of this exciting community of self-expression and individuality. Whether you're an experienced designer or just starting out, the process of creating and seeing your design on the track is incredibly rewarding.
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Consider complexity: strike a balance between simplicity and complexity for visual appeal
When creating a paint scheme for a dirt late model iRacing car, it's important to consider the balance between complexity and simplicity. While a simple design may not stand out, a scheme that is too complex may be difficult for other players to read on the track. The key is to aim for a visually appealing design that is not overly cluttered.
To achieve this balance, consider the following:
Contrast
Choose colours that contrast well with each other to make your paint scheme pop on the track. Avoid using colours that are too similar or close in value, as this can make your design look washed out or muddy.
Balance
Create a balanced design by paying attention to pattern placement. Spread patterns and colours throughout the car, avoiding clustering them in one area. This will help to create a cohesive and interesting design.
Focal Point
Draw attention to your design by creating a focal point. Avoid a flat-looking scheme by ensuring your focal point stands out and captures attention.
Custom Stencils
Add personality to your car by creating custom stencils. Use images, logos, numbers, or designs to make your car unique and memorable. This is a great way to express yourself and make your car stand out from the crowd.
Pre-made Templates
If you're new to paint scheme design, consider using a pre-made template as a starting point. There are many free and paid templates available online that you can customise to make your own. This can be a less daunting way to get started and still allow for creativity and personal expression.
Remember, the key is to strike a balance between complexity and simplicity to create a visually appealing design that you're proud to race with!
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Frequently asked questions
You can create a custom paint scheme for your iRacing car by using a pre-defined list of patterns and colours or by creating your own design. If you create your own design, you will need to export it to iRacing using a graphics editor such as Photoshop or GIMP.
When creating a paint scheme, it's important to strike a balance between complexity and simplicity. A paint scheme that is too simple may not be very eye-catching, but a scheme that is too complex may be difficult to read on the track. You should also consider the placement of your patterns and the colours you choose.
To export your design to a .tga file, you will need to use a graphics editor such as Photoshop or GIMP.
There are many resources available for creating custom paint schemes, including pre-made templates, third-party services such as Trading Paints, and the iRacing forums, where you can request a custom scheme to be created for you by fellow iRacers who are also artists.











































