painting a handbox

[coonhunter]

I am reworking a handbox, I have stripped the paint, primered it and put the first coat of hammered paint on it. Should I clear coat it after I get done with the hammered paint? I want the paint to last as long as possible.

 

[My Junk is Stuff]

I did not put clear on mine, but that does not mean you couldn't.. The clear might help it not fade, maybe some guys with real painting experience can chime in.

 

[bodyguy16]

For durablility:yes ! Dont forget if you drop some oil, glue wtv on it if cleared its also easier to clean without damaging the finish.

 

[nelstomlinson]

I had a Stackon box that was ugly, but still usable. I spraypainted the box Cat yellow, then sprayed some rattlecan bed liner on the bottom and an inch up the sides. It's ugly, not a restoration, but the bed liner is keeping the bottom from getting scratched and starting to rust again.

 

[Adam.C]

No. For a long lasting finish, surface prep is everything. Clean the metal, then wipe down with mineral spirits or similar. Epoxy primers are great. Then bake it to fully cure the primer. Heat lamps can work.

The trick to top coats is making sure the surface is clean (wipe with solvents) and the previous coat is fully dried.

No advantage I know of for clear coat. I always thought clear was just cheaper than something with pigment. I think multiple color coats looks better on just about everything.