Matching Paint: Restoring An Antique Truck's Original Color

Matching the paint on an antique truck can be challenging, especially when dealing with aged or faded paint. While it may be tempting to attempt a touch-up with a closely matched colour, this can often result in the new paint job standing out against the original. One solution is to utilise a body shop supply store, where you can find paints that can be custom-matched to the desired shade. However, this option may be costly and time-consuming. Alternatively, you can try DIY techniques to create an antique paint finish. This involves using a combination of paint, glue, and wax to achieve the desired aged effect. By working in sections and applying the glue and paint in layers, you can create a worn and antique appearance.

Using a body shop supply store for paint

When it comes to restoring an antique truck, matching the paint can be a challenge. Paint colours can vary over time due to sun exposure and environmental factors, making it difficult to achieve an exact match. However, a body shop supply store can be a great resource for finding the right paint for your antique truck.

Firstly, it's important to understand that automotive paint is more complex than simply adding a coat of paint to a wall. It typically involves a primer, a base coat, and a clear coat. The primer is essential to ensure proper adhesion and prevent issues like cracks, flaking, and rusting. The base coat gives the truck its colour, while the clear coat protects the base coat and adds a glossy finish.

When visiting a body shop supply store, you can expect to find knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the process of selecting the right paint. They may ask for information such as the year, make, and model of your truck, as well as the paint code, which is usually found on the vehicle's information label or trim plate. This information will help them locate the correct colour code and mix the paint to match your truck.

Some body shop supply stores, like O'Reilly Auto Parts, offer custom paint-mixing services. They can colour-match and mix the exact amount of paint you need for your project. They may even use a spectrophotometer to provide a closer match to faded or non-factory colours. This service can be especially useful for antique trucks, as it increases the chances of finding a paint colour that closely resembles the original.

While a body shop supply store can provide you with the necessary paint and expertise, it's important to keep in mind that painting an entire truck is a complex task. You may need to consider additional equipment and techniques to achieve a smooth and seamless finish. Blending techniques, for example, are commonly used to ensure a smooth transition between the new paint and the existing panels, making any repairs virtually undetectable.

Prematurely ageing paint with a gas torch

While it is possible to use a gas torch to strip paint, it is not recommended as a method to age paint on an antique truck. This is because a gas torch can scorch or burn the top layer of paint.

There are alternative methods to ageing paint that are more suitable. For example, using a baby bottle brush to create "age spots" on the paint or using dark wax to create an antique finish.

If you are set on using a gas torch, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind. Always turn off the gas torch when it is not in use and never leave it unattended. Make sure to disconnect the torch from the gas supply after use and allow it to cool before storing it away. Hold the torch at a constant distance of 15 to 20 cm (6-8 inches) from the surface and adjust the distance depending on the intensity of the flame. Use a softer, more gentle flame, such as the one produced by a fantail attachment, which can be held closer to the surface. Move the torch backward and forward until the paint starts to lift, bubble, or wrinkle, then use a scraper to remove the paint. Wipe off any residue with an old rag and repeat the process until all the paint has been removed. Finally, use sandpaper to remove any remaining residue and create a smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to.

It is important to note that using a gas torch to strip paint can be dangerous if not done properly. Always prioritize your safety and take the necessary precautions when working with flammable tools and materials.

Applying glue and chalk paint for an antique finish

To achieve an antique finish on your truck, you can use chalk paint and glue to create an aged look. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Materials

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need chalk paint (any colour and brand of your choice), school glue, two paintbrushes, towels, a blow dryer (optional), and antiquing wax (optional).

Surface Preparation

Start by cleaning the surface of your truck where you plan to apply the antique finish. Use a mild cleaner to wipe down the area and ensure it is thoroughly dry before proceeding.

Glue Application

Apply the school glue to the surface using one of your paintbrushes. You can use the blow dryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process if needed. Allow the glue to dry almost completely, but not fully.

Chalk Paint Application

Once the glue is nearly dry, take your second paintbrush and dip it into the chalk paint. Apply the paint over the glue, being careful not to over-apply. The glue will cause the paint to look raised, creating a textured finish. You can apply multiple coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry for about an hour before reapplying.

Crackling Effect

As the paint and glue dry, they will begin to crackle, giving the antique, aged appearance. If you wish to enhance this effect, use a blow dryer on the surface.

Sealing and Antiquing

Once you are satisfied with the colour and crackling effect, let the surface dry overnight. At this point, you can apply a clear wax or antiquing wax to seal the paint and enhance the antique look. Use a towel to rub the wax into the cracks and create the desired level of ageing. Remember to let the wax dry thoroughly before handling the truck's surface.

Additional Tips

If you want to further age the paintwork, you can use dark chalk paint wax. Apply it to still-wet clear wax and spread it in small areas, removing any excess with clear wax as you go. Finish by ensuring the entire surface is waxed at least once using a lint-free cloth. The wax will take about two weeks to fully harden, so be gentle with the surface during this time.

Using a colour-matching system to mix paint

Matching the paint colour of an antique truck can be challenging, especially if you're trying to blend new paint with old. While there are various colour-matching systems and tools available, finding the exact shade may require some trial and error.

One option is to consult an auto body shop or a paint supplier. They may be able to custom-match the colour by using a colour-matching system or by visually comparing it to paint swatches. However, their standard basecoat system may differ from the original paint formula, resulting in a less-than-perfect match.

Alternatively, you can utilise technology to aid in the colour-matching process. There are online tools and apps, such as Trycolors.com and Sherwin-Williams, that allow you to mix paints digitally and find precise recipes for your desired colour. These tools can be useful for simulating real-world paint mixing and saving your perfect combinations.

Another option is to use a spectrophotometer, a machine commonly used in the auto industry to match paint colours seamlessly. This device uses white light, usually from a tungsten bulb or LED, to illuminate a paint sample. The reflected light is then analysed by a highly efficient colour analyser, enabling the machine to identify the exact colour.

If you're an artist or have access to photo editing software, you can employ a similar method by photographing the truck, importing the image into software like Photoshop, and using the eyedropper tool to sample specific colours. You can then print out these swatches and match your paint directly to them.

When mixing paint manually, it's important to start with the right pigments and use both warm and cool primary colours to achieve a wide range of shades. Additionally, certain types of paint, such as tempera and gouache, dry lighter than they appear when wet, so it's advisable to mix slightly darker values than desired to compensate.

Polishing flat paint to a desired sheen

The next step is to prepare the surface meticulously. This involves cleaning the surface and ensuring it is smooth and free of dust and residues. If working with a primer, allow it to dry thoroughly before sanding.

Now, you can choose from a variety of methods to add sheen. One option is to apply a clear coat, such as a polyacrylic varnish, on top of the paint. This adds sheen and protection. Alternatively, you can use glazes, mediums, or varnishes to increase glossiness. You can create your own glaze by mixing a glazing compound with the paint, usually not exceeding a mixture of 20% water. Acrylic mediums and gloss varnishes can also be used.

If you are aiming for a satin finish, you can use a clear polyurethane or acrylic coating. For an eggshell finish, apply a higher-sheen clear coat or mix the paint with a satin finish additive.

It is important to note that altering the chemical composition of the paint can affect its properties. Always follow manufacturer instructions, particularly drying times, to ensure the best finish.

Frequently asked questions