How to Use a Paint Pen

Instructions to repair small paint chips and fine scratches - up to the size of a pencil eraser.

Fixing a small paint chip or scratch is something you absolutely can do yourself. You don't need special skills - just take your time and follow the steps. With patience, a Paint Pen can restore your paint beautifully!

Getting ready

  • For best results, work slowly, apply thin coats, and allow proper drying time between steps.
  • Minimum application temperature: 40 degrees F
  • Work in a shaded, dry area
  • If this is your first repair, complete one small chip from start to finish before repairing additional areas

Troubleshooting questions

How long should I wait between coats?

Apply light coats and let each coat dry before the next one. Follow the product directions for exact timing because temperature, humidity, and coat thickness affect dry time.

What order should primer, basecoat, and clearcoat go in?

Primer goes on exposed metal, plastic, or filler first. Basecoat color goes next, and clearcoat goes over basecoat when gloss and protection are needed.

Why did the repair dry dull?

Dullness can happen when clearcoat is missing, the coat is too dry, or the repair needs curing and polishing. Check the directions before adding more material.

Can I fix raised blobs or runs?

Let the paint dry first. Then follow the directions for carefully leveling and polishing instead of wiping wet paint across the repair.

Can I paint in cold or humid weather?

Avoid cold, damp, or very humid conditions. Paint flows, dries, and cures best in a clean, dry, moderate-temperature area.

Tutorial: How To Use a Paint Pen

  • 1. Check for Color Match

    Shake the basecoat paint (and midcoat if applicable) thoroughly before use. Do NOT shake the clearcoat pen.

    Test the paint flow before starting: Never depress the pen on your vehicle, but rather test the tip on a hard surface to start paint flow. Do not press and hold the nib down - this will cause paint to flood out. Wipe excess paint from the tip before applying. Allow to dry and check for color accuracy before starting on your vehicle.

  • 2. Clean & Prep

    Wash with soap and water, let dry completely. Wipe with wax and grease remover for best adhesion. Optional: Mask surrounding area with automotive masking tape.
    If rust is present:

    • Remove surface rust using 220 grit sandpaper or a wire brush.
    • Remove all dust before proceeding.
    • Do not attempt to repair bubbling or advanced rust with a paint pen.
  • 3. Prime the Surface

    Primer is required on bare metal, plastic, rubber, or any unpainted surface. Apply thin coats and allow to dry thoroughly.

    If needed:

    • Smooth lightly using rubbing compound.
    • If sanding, use 1000 grit wet sandpaper with plenty of water.
    • Sand carefully to avoid dulling surrounding paint.
    • Do not use enamel primer.
  • 4a. Apply Basecoat Pen

    The basecoat is the color-matched paint. In cooler temperatures, drying may require overnight time.

    • Depress tip on a test surface.
    • Wipe excess before continuing.
    • Apply thin, light coats.
    • Do not attempt to cover the chip in one coat or it will not be smooth.

    If additional paint is needed:

    • Allow 10-20 minutes between coats.
    • Build paint gradually to match surrounding depth.
    • Allow basecoat to dry completely before applying clearcoat.

  • 4b. Add Depth with Midcoat

    If you have a tricoat color, you'll need to add a thin layer of Midcoat, which will add depth and dimension. Apply in the same manner as the basecoat - in thin layers - until the repair blends into the surrounding paint. Allow paint to dry between layers.

  • 5. Protect & Shine with Clearcoat

    Clearcoat protects and seals the repair.

    • Ensure basecoat is dry to the touch.
    • Apply thin coats.
    • Wait 10-20 minutes between coats.
    • Float the clearcoat gently over the basecoat.
    • Do not apply pressure - clearcoat can soften and disturb the basecoat.

    Allow clearcoat to dry thoroughly. Overnight drying is recommended when possible.

    Note: The repair area may appear darker after clearcoat is applied. This is normal.

  • 6. Polish and Shine

    Wait at least 3 days before polishing.

    • Use automotive rubbing compound (cutting creme).
    • Apply with a clean, soft cotton cloth only (such as an old T-shirt).
    • Do not use paper towels - they can scratch the finish.
    • Use circular motions with even pressure.
    • Buff to restore shine.

    If necessary, additional polishing may improve gloss.

    Wait 30 days before waxing.

  • 7. Hooray! You're done!

    Wipe clean and enjoy your new repair! Allow the repair 3 days to fully set before applying any wax or polish.

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Helpful Reminders

Aftercare & Final Notes

  • Allow the repair to cure fully before waxing (30 days).
  • The repaired area may appear slightly darker once clearcoat is applied - this is normal.
  • Additional light polishing may improve gloss if needed.
  • If the repair does not match as expected, professional polishing can further blend the finish.

When a Paint Pen Is Not the Right Tool:

  • Damage larger than a pencil eraser
  • Bubbling or advanced rust
  • Large scratches requiring blending into surrounding panels - These situations require spray application or professional repair.

First-Time Tip

If you are new to paint repair, practice starting the paint flow and applying thin coats on a smooth surface before working on your vehicle. This helps you understand drying time and paint control.

Watch More Tutorial Videos

Visit our YouTube channel for short, easy-to-follow videos that show how to find your paint color code, apply touch-up paint, use paint pens, and repair chips and scratches correctly. Opens in a new tab.

Youtube Tutorials
  • Paint Pens

    How to repair small chips and fine scratches - up to the size of a pencil eraser

    Read Directions 
  • Paint Bottles

    Instructions to repair slightly larger chips, edges, and multiple narrow areas

    Read Directions 
  • Spray Cans

    How to complete larger repairs, blend panels, and fix more visible areas

    Read Directions 
  • Pro Sizes

    How to use spray equipment to repaint large sections and full panels

    Read Directions 

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