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
Step-by-Step Instructions
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
- Use automotive rubbing compound (cutting creme).
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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.
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.
Directions for other proucts
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Paint Pens
Read DirectionsHow to repair small chips and fine scratches – up to the size of a pencil eraser
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Paint Bottles
Read DirectionsInstructions to repair slightly larger chips, edges, and multiple narrow areas
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