Optional Step: Glazing
Before applying a wax or sealant, it is optional to apply a paint glaze to create an extra deep wet shine and hide/fill minor imperfections. This step is not necessary and may or may not enhance the look of your paint depending on your paint color. Refer to the Glaze Guide for more information.
Application by hand:
Applying a wax or sealant by hand is fairly straight forward. You can use a foam or microfiber hand applicator or even a folded microfiber towel. I personally like to mist new applicators with a spray detailer/wax to soften them up before use.
For liquid and paste products, prime your applicator by applying a small amount of the product across the entire applicator surface. This can be tricky with pastes. I like to smear the pad into the container or scoop a little out with my finger and gently rub it onto the applicator surface.
Now take your applicator with a small amount of product and gently rub it onto a large work area in a back and forth motion. Keep the product amount thin! A little bit can go a very long way.
Do not apply in a circular motion. Move the applicator in straight lines and spread out an even thin layer of product onto the paint. Work on one panel at a time and make your way around the vehicle. If the instructions for your product say to let it dry, go around applying the product to the entire vehicle before buffing it clean with a microfiber towel. If your product instructions don’t require it to dry to a haze, feel free to buff the product clean after each individual panel. Wipe down panels in straight lines and avoid circular motions. You can mist your buffing towel with a spray detailer/wax to assist in removing stubborn dried up product if necessary. Remember to keep away from trim pieces and avoid getting product stuck in between body lines.
Keep your application thin and even. Do not use too much product as this will only make it more difficult to wipe clean. Less is more.
If you’re simply applying a spray on wax or sealant, just mist your work area and microfiber towel with the product and gently wipe the panel in a “snake” motion or in straight lines similar to the diagram to the left. Once the product has been spread around, flip your towel to a dry side and buff the panel clean. Avoid using circular motions. Spray detailers and waterless/rinseless wash products are very easy to use and work great to fill in the gap between washes and details.
Inspect your work to make sure you haven’t left behind any product residue. Try to keep the coats thin and evenly spread. If you have dried up residue, use a spray detailer/wax with your microfiber towel to gently buff it clean. Multiple coats can be applied so feel free to apply more product if you like.
How to properly apply carnauba wax by hand.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE