Paint Color Flakes
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
What Are Paint Color Flakes?
Paint color flakes — also known as metal flakes or metalflake — are one of the most visually dramatic tools in a custom painter's arsenal. Paint color flakes are tiny metallic or polyester particles suspended in a clear carrier, base coat, or clear coat. When light hits the finished surface, each individual flake acts like a tiny mirror, producing a dazzling, multi-dimensional shimmer that no solid or standard metallic paint can replicate.
Why Paint Color Flakes Matter
From classic hot rods and custom motorcycles to show cars and bass boats, flake finishes have defined bold, expressive vehicle culture for decades. The effect ranges from a subtle, fine-grain sparkle to a heavy, eye-catching “galaxy of stars” look — all depending on flake size, color, and application technique. Unlike factory paint options, flakes give builders true creative freedom: the same base color looks entirely different when paired with gold flakes versus blue, or when micro flakes are swapped for chunky, coarse-cut ones.
Paint color flakes aren’t just for show, either. Quality flakes are engineered to be solvent-resistant and colorfast, ensuring the finished product holds up to the environmental demands of real-world use. The key is selecting the right flake size and ensuring compatibility with your chosen carrier — whether that’s a urethane clear, an intercoat, or a kandy base coat.
How to Use Paint Color Flakes
Flakes are typically mixed into a clear carrier or intercoat and applied over a cured base coat. Flake size determines both the visual effect and the equipment required: finer flakes can be sprayed through smaller nozzle setups, while larger, chunkier flakes demand bigger spray tips and extra technique to avoid clogging. After the flake layer is applied, multiple coats of clear are applied and sanded to “bury” the flakes, resulting in a glass-smooth, deep finish. Always work in a well-ventilated environment and wear appropriate respiratory protection when spraying flake-laden materials.
Key Considerations When Shopping for Paint Color Flakes
- Flake Size: Sizes typically range from ultra-fine micro flakes to large hex cuts. Smaller flakes lay flatter and are easier to finish; larger flakes create a bolder, retro look but require more prep work to smooth.
- Material: Flakes may be made from aluminum or polyester. Polyester flakes tend to be ultra-thin and lightweight, making them easier to spray and lay flat under clear coat.
- Color & Effect: Standard metallic colors like gold and silver are perennial favorites, but specialty options — including color-shifting and translucent flakes — are available for truly one-of-a-kind results.
- Compatibility: Ensure your chosen flakes are compatible with your paint system — whether urethane, enamel, waterborne, or kandy — before mixing.
Top Brands in Paint Color Flakes
House of Kolor is the definitive name in custom automotive finishes, with a heritage dating back to 1956. Their flake lineup — spanning the F Series, MF (Mini Flake) Series, and UMF (Ultra Mini Flake) Series — offers painters a wide range of sizes and colors, including innovative Kameleon color-shift flakes. House of Kolor flakes are made from ultra-thin polyester, engineered for easy spraying and smooth lay-down, and are designed to integrate seamlessly with the broader House of Kolor paint system including their Shimrin®2 Karriers and urethane clears.