Mottling

Color variation in metallic paint, with patches of lighter or darker tint, often in streaks following the direction of spraying.

Causes

Irregular application density of the basecoat. This is a result of:

  • Poor spraying technique
  • Poor pattern from the spray nozzle
  • Paint too wet, insufficiently mixed paint, poor quality or wrong type of thinner
  • Surface too hot or too cold

Prevention

  • Use the correct spraying technique
  • Adjust the nozzle to the correct pattern before spraying
  • Ensure that the paint is thoroughly mixed to the correct consistency
  • Use only recommended thinner. Ensure that the surface is within the recommended temperature range

Correcting

If the clearcoat has not been applied, reapply the basecoat; otherwise sand down the surface and repaint.