We’re currently developing a comprehensive beginner’s painting guide. This initial version is a detailed PDF document with step-by-step instructions, supporting images, links to helpful videos, and recommended products. It covers every stage of the painting process — from assessing your project and preparing panels, to applying each coat with confidence and achieving a professional finish. You’ll also learn how to set up an effective painting area without the need for a full paint booth, how to avoid and correct common mistakes, and which tools, materials, and safety equipment are essential.

Contents:

  • Workspace Considerations: how a paint booth manages potential issues and how you can manage these issues without a paint booth
  • Tools & Equipment: what are the essential tools you’ll need and what are the ‘nice to haves’ that will make life easier
  • Safety Equipment & Practices: painting can be dangerous so we’ll explain how to make it safe
  • Types of Paint: when to use, how to mix, drying times and everything else you need to know about the most common types of paint
  • Panel Preparation: how to prepare your project for an issue-free, perfect finish
  • Basic Painting Techniques: master the fundamentals of painting for the best results
  • Common Mistakes & Paint Defects: the most common mistakes, how to avoid them and how to rectify them if you make a mistake

We now have a group of people to test this first version before its official release. Testers are getting get full access to the guide for free in return for honest feedback to help us refine and improve the final product. Sorry we now have enough people to help with this. However if you’d like a copy of the guide when it is complete you can pre-order it by texting the words ‘paint pdf order‘ to 07969 741442 and we’ll add you to the list. As soon as it is ready we will let you know and you’ll be able to order it for immediate download. Alternatively email your request for a copy to Steve@ChameleonClassicCars.co.uk. The guide is likely to be priced at around US$25.

You can also join our Facebook group of classic car and bike restorers here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/classiccarrestorersuk/