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°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

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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