This only speaks to my experience.

Having followed all procedures to paint auto parts (eg. side mouldings, front lip etc.) at home with Duplicolor Sprays (flexible primer, base coat and clear coat), why does the color usually turn out to be a lot more dull (less glossy) than that from a professional paint shop (I know this is why paint shops exists but am I missing a step that is preventing the finish from being glossy?):

1. Wash part (also with degreaser)
2. Wet-Sand (until very smooth)
3. Primer
4. Base Coat
5. Clear Coat

Should I use rubbing compound after clear coat to truly bring out the shine?

Thanks.

 

1 is the type of material you buy (spray bombs are not the same as paint in a can for guns) the clear is different etc...

2 you dont have a paintbooth (like a downdraft which forces to clear to run down so it gives it a natural smoothness)

3 things like hardner and reducers arent used and are premixed with the clear and premixed means its univeral therefore its not custom mixed to your liking.

and so on and so forth.

 

its all about prep,
search h-t for $50 paint job and you will learn.

 

actually the most part is the curing temperature and the proper mixture of the clear coat.

i painted my old hatchback in a garage with plastic up and a spray gun and proper paints. never turned out flat. just make sure you read the proper mixture for the clear, and keep it warm.

and if need be give it a wet sand and polish to fix any non glossy areas.

 

to achieve the smooth and clear finish like OEM, u need the tools and a proper sealed place as jay mentioned. i really had fun painting my lip and mirrors but you can never match the OEM finish....so for smaller parts...DIY...but for bigger ones...like a bumper or a door or a fender...get it done at a shop...cuz otherwise...it will look crappy

 

Lol.

you can do better than factory. factory paint jobs are never perfect. if you look at the details of the factory paint job you can see orange peel and other little flaws aswell.