Guide · Tint, Paint and Wraps
Paint Finishes Explained: Gloss, Satin, Matte, Candy and Pearl
The finish matters as much as the color. Here is what each type looks like, how it is made and how to care for it.
Call us today615-925-3388The finish matters as much as the color. Here is what each type looks like, how it is made and how to care for it.
Gloss
Gloss is the classic finish: a smooth clearcoat that reflects the world like glass. It is the easiest to polish and repair, and it shows every wave in the panel, so the body work underneath has to be straight.
Satin and matte
Satin and matte use a clearcoat that scatters light, giving a flat, modern look. They hide small waves in the panel but cannot be polished, so scratches and oil from hands need careful, gentle care.
Candy and pearl
Candy color is transparent paint over a bright base, so the shade deepens with every coat. Pearls and metallics add tiny flakes that glow and shift in the light. Both are demanding to spray and best repaired by the shop that did them.
Choosing for how you drive
A daily driver is usually happiest in gloss with a coating on top. Show cars and weekend builds can carry candy, pearl and satin, because they live indoors and are washed by hand.
In This Guide
Vehicles Mentioned
Show and Meet RegularsPerformance and Street Builds
Muscle Cars
American V8 attitude with stripes, hood scoops, big rear tires and a sound system that does not apologize.
Show and Meet RegularsPerformance and Street Builds
Classic Cars and Restomods
Old-school bodies with modern comfort: candy paint, rebuilt interiors, quiet cabins, hidden audio and updated security.
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Nashville Custom is an automotive customizing shop in Nashville, Tennessee. We tint, paint, wrap, upholster, wire, light, lift and build, from a single set of heated seats to a complete custom vehicle, with clean installs you can see and feel every day.
- 615-925-3388
- Custom auto customizing shop
- Nashville, Tennessee