STEP 1

Before beginning, unpack your kit, organize your materials, and review the entire application process from start to finish. Make sure you have everything ready before coating begins.

Before starting:

• Check the weather and temperature. For best results, apply between 50–77°F.
• Choose a clean, dry, well-lit area protected from direct sunlight, wind, dust, and debris.
• Make sure rain or heavy moisture is not expected during application or the initial 24-hour cure, unless the vehicle will remain fully covered and dry.
• Plan enough time to complete each panel without unnecessary stopping once application begins.
• Inspect your pads, towels, cleaners, Clear Coat, and Catalyst so everything is within reach.
• Verify paint and primer compatibility. If a hardener or catalyst was mixed into the paint or primer when it was applied, it is generally suitable for wipe-on application. If any exposed paint or primer is a single-component (1K) product, such as aerosol or lacquer, follow the spray application instructions in Step 8. Wiping over these products could re-wet the coating and drag or transfer the color.
• Always test a small, inconspicuous area before coating the entire vehicle. If you are unsure whether the paint or primer is compatible, email us at help@poppyspatina.com with photos and any available product information. We’ll gladly take a look before you begin.

Catalyst Bottle Note: Your Catalyst bottle may look partially filled. This is normal, and it contains the correct amount of Catalyst. The extra space is simply due to the bottle size.

Taking a few minutes to prepare your workspace, supplies, and application plan will make the entire process smoother and help produce a more consistent finish.

Step 3

Thoroughly wash the entire surface using Poppy’s Pre-Cleaner and water. While washing, use a Light Duty Grey Scuff Pad to scuff every area that will be coated.

This helps remove:

• Dirt
• Oxidation
• Loose debris
• Surface contaminants

It also creates a uniformly dull surface for proper coating adhesion and an even finish.

Once complete, rinse the surface thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before moving to the next step.

Step 5

Before applying the coating, thoroughly wipe down the surface using Poppy’s Wax & Grease Remover and clean lint-free or microfiber towels.

• Use a two-towel method: wet one towel with Wax & Grease Remover to clean the surface, then immediately dry it with a second clean towel.
• Pay close attention to panel edges, body lines, emblems, handles, crevices, and corners where dust, oils, sanding residue, and other contaminants can collect.
• Before moving on, make sure the entire surface is completely clean, dry, and residue-free.

Step 7

Before application, inspect the included applicator pad and make sure it is clean and free of debris or loose fibers.

• Use the included applicator pad for the entire wipe-on application.
• The applicator pad is flexible enough for large flat surfaces, tight spaces, edges, body lines, and smaller sections.
• Do not use wiping rags to apply the Clear Coat. The recycled knit rags included in the kit are intended for cleaning and surface preparation only.

Keeping the applicator pad clean helps prevent lint, debris, and contamination from getting into the finish.

Step 9

Hoods and roofs are large, highly visible panels, so plan your application path before beginning.

• Fully soak the applicator pad with mixed Clear Coat. Then, gently squeeze the pad against the inside of the mixing cup or applicator tray to remove excess product that could cause drips or runs. The pad should be fully saturated but not dripping.
• Start from one side and work across the panel using very light pressure and smooth, consistent passes.
• Maintain approximately 10% overlap and a wet edge, avoiding stops in the middle of the panel whenever possible.
• Re-saturate the pad as needed rather than allowing it to become dry. Each time you add more Clear Coat, squeeze out any excess before returning to the surface.
• Do not wipe back over Clear Coat that has already begun to set.
• A second person can be helpful but is not required. They can hold the tray, keep product within reach, and help you move around the vehicle without interrupting the application.
• Use good lighting to monitor your coverage and keep the coating even across the entire panel.

Step 10

Doors and quarter panels require extra attention around handles, trim, body lines, edges, and recessed areas.

• Before applying, plan your wiping path around tighter areas so you can keep a smooth, continuous motion once you begin.
• Apply the Clear Coat in smooth, horizontal passes moving in one consistent direction, working from the top of the panel downward. Maintain approximately 10% overlap and a wet edge as you go.
• Watch for excess buildup around edges, contours, handles, and detailed areas, and keep the applicator pad evenly saturated throughout the panel.
• Inspect each section as you move around the vehicle to ensure an even finish and consistent gloss throughout the side panels.

Step 11

Tailgates and trunk panels require extra attention around emblems, license plate areas, trim, edges, and recessed sections.

• Before applying, plan your wiping path around tighter areas so you can maintain a smooth, continuous motion once you begin.
• Apply the Clear Coat in smooth, horizontal passes moving in one consistent direction, working from the top of the panel downward. Maintain approximately 10% overlap and a wet edge as you go.
• Keep the applicator pad well saturated and watch for excess buildup around badges, corners, trim, and recessed areas.

Step 12

After application, allow the coating to cure in a clean, dry environment away from moisture, dust, and direct sunlight.

• Avoid water exposure for at least 24 hours and do not wash the vehicle during the initial curing period.
• For additional coats, allow the coating to cure, then lightly scuff the surface before reapplying to ensure proper adhesion.
• If any imperfections are found after curing, lightly sand or scuff the affected area and reapply as needed.
• Once fully cured, the coating will provide a smooth, durable finish while helping protect and improve the appearance of faded or failing clear coat.

Once the coating has fully cured, maintain the finish using Poppy’s Wash & Wax and Detail Spray with Ceramic.

• Wash the vehicle using Poppy’s Wash & Wax, then rinse the surface thoroughly.
• While the vehicle is still wet, lightly mist the Detail Spray onto one panel at a time.
• Dry the panel using a clean, soft microfiber towel and buff away any remaining residue.

Using Detail Spray while drying helps reduce water spots, remove light residue and fingerprints, and add slickness, water beading, and maintenance protection.

Poppy’s Wash & Wax is included in our Clear Coat kits. Wash & Wax and Detail Spray are also available together as a complete maintenance kit for ongoing care.