helmet question

[zero420]

just a quick question i have a nutshell helmet its a matte blk finish can i scuff that up a little and begin airbrushing or do i have to prime it regardless the helmet is new no scrtches or hits on it thanks in advance

zero420

is it the factory finish zero? just a matt clear?

[zero420]

yes its a factory finish and matt clear

zero420

grease, wax remover, clean it with warm & water soap, scuff it , clean it and have fun if you are uising the usual paint, clear it again after you add the art work

[zero420]

thanks don appriciate the quick response

zero420

[redesigns]

Zero I would beware when doing that... I agree with Don to a certain extent but you must remember when you scuff with scotch brite or 600 or 800 grit paper you are opening you self up to reaction between factory paint and your art work paint...IF you are using auto air or some other water based paint you might be ok.... But if you are using your regular auto paints you might want to lay down a good clear sealer...Like dupont velva seal if they still make that... its slightly milky but you can add a few drops of black into it and you are good to go or any other kolor you wish... Bull Dog is a very clear sealer and adhesion promoter.. I only say this because I have tried doing that in the past only to have factory clear bubble and react poorly to my methods...Just remember if you are clearing with a good catalyst based clear you do not want to jeperdize your work so sealing is always best... Hope this doesnt step on anyones toes...

[zero420]

redesign i appeciate the response and info its defenately very helpful i will be going with water based (auto air) since its just a practice helmet and im really not to up on urithanes and so forth and also since i do my work in my apt kitchen i prefer water based
thanks once again
zero420

I've been painting helmets over ten years with House of Kolor and never once had a problem doing it the way I described even over the laq. that most helmets made it china are finished with these days.

No toes stepped on at all. My advice comes from real life experiance I can only pass that along take it or leave it as it where.

Thats what the forum is for to get different views, opions on different techniques. No worries redesigns I appricate you taking part here, thank you.