COLOR CODER-7 (1978) - Tapestry Red S/F MetallicDodge Touch-Up Paint

The Look

The late seventies marked a shift toward more sophisticated, grounded tones, and this color is the perfect example. It isn't a loud, racing red but rather a deep, moody shade that fits the era of the Dodge Aspen and the classic Tradesman vans. Since your car has been out in the world for over forty years, the original paint has likely faced some fading or darkening from the sun. This means your repair might look a bit fresher than the surrounding area, so focusing on thin layers will help you blend the new pigment with the old.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, which presents a specific challenge during application. The paint contains tiny flakes that need to lay flat to reflect light correctly. If you apply the paint too heavily, these flakes tend to cluster together, resulting in a blotchy or "mottled" appearance. This makes the color look uneven or darker in some spots than others. To get a factory-quality look, you want those flakes to distribute evenly across the surface rather than sinking into a thick, wet layer of paint.

Best Practices

Before you dab or apply Dodge Tapestry Red S/F Metallic (verify code R-7 (1978) on the metal fender tag under your hood or the driver-side door jamb), you must shake the container for at least one full minute. Those metallic flakes are heavy and settle at the bottom; if they aren't fully mixed, the color will look thin and dull. Test the color on the included card first to get a feel for the flow and how the flakes settle. When you move to the car, keep the container moving at all times. Use light, thin passes and allow for plenty of drying time between each layer to build the color gradually without causing the paint to pool.