The difference between 1K, 2K, and 2X clear coat

1K, 2K, and 2X clear coat are not the same thing, and there's a lot of confusion about what's what. Don't worry though; we can clear that up!

Hey guys! I’m Brad, and I make how-to videos, project vlogs, and more. I do custom painting projects, guitar painting, airbrushing, spray can painting, wood working, and a variety of other finishing work. Please subscribe and check out my channel for more!

In this video we discuss the difference between 1K, 2K, and 2X clear coat. These are three popular types of spray can clear coat, and it is important to know the difference between them.

Don't forget to ask your questions in the comment section.

Thanks for watching.

To get in touch with me with your questions, photos, etc. use the links below!

[BradAngove]

Hey guys, if you want to get your hands on some 2K clear, here are affiliate links:

[LagunaLeonhart]

A tip for 2k clear coat is to put it in the freezer once you've popped it, used it and need to make it last for another day. It won't harden and you can use it again the next day. It only works for a couple of days but it's great for maximising it's use

[copasetic]

"Clear" things up...I see what you did there...

[dicklongmire]

For DYI's, while you should always wear a resperator when doing any sanding and painting, a 2K is much more poisonous than a 1K so a respirator is an absolute must.

[williamcharles]

Thanks a lot for the instruction about this confusing deal. All too often car magazines will take this matter for granted and don't explain. I realize that your channel isn't really dedicated to cars, but the paint products can be. Thanks for the links also. Peace

[sruchi]

Had been searching for info on Rust-Oleum 2X Matte Clear spray and came across your video... clear explanation for beginners like me. Thanks a ton! I knew 2X meant twice the times but wasn't sure of the performance / usage.

[johnniemnemonic]

2k paints/lacquers are used in modern car body repair shops due to their fast curing time and durability, 1k paint is used for colour base coats that are applied on top of the primer or prepped existing paint before 2k lacquer is applied over the top to seal and protect it. 1k base coats dry by solvent evaporation before a 2k is applied that dries by chemical reaction. Good informative vid Brad. 🤘👍🎸

[ScottRedstone]

Very useful. Oddly a few minutes ago I was going through a box of spray paints left by people moving out. I saw a fitting on the bottom of one and had no idea what it was. Thanks for the serendipitous explanation. Expiration time of 12 hrs is a good reason to paint more than one part at a time

[Oldgit]

At last I found a vid that actually points out the difference between 1K and 2K

[pamcarr]

I caught that too..."clear" things up! Haha, love ya Brad!
Hey, thanks for the information. Great as always!
Thanks, Pam

[sean]

Simple and straight to the point. Really helped clear things up.

[kevmac]

Hi Brad, I wanted to thank you for these videos.They helped me big time on my first build, a jazz bass.I finished it about a month or so ago but I've been busy moving for the first time in over 25 yrs.so things have been crazy.I just had to get back to you and give thanks.I'm starting a Music Man bass from Solo and this time i think a tung oil finnish is in order.Thanks again.

[GTcruzin]

This stuff is the best stuff on the market for DIY jobs! I’ve used this clear many times and you can’t beat it for the moneyb

[-smp-scientificmethodpersp]

Short, clear (pun intended 😉), and strait to the point.
This is exactly what we want.

[TommyAkers-jpqe]

I hope you realize how much time and trouble you've saved me I've watched a 100 videos and still confused this one casually nailed it good job and thank you 🙏

[ebsell]

A 2 k clear is automotive quality clearcoat. Less chance of the solvent in the clear reacting to your paint and softening and wrinkling the paint. 2k is well worth the money.

[richardwallinger]

great presentation .. I have just used two pack spray can clearcoat and managed to give four headlights a good three coats .. the end result was spectacular .

[erniedawg]

You forgot to mention 2K clear is solvent resistant. Huge difference with that alone.

[justnoted]

Heck now I am more confused about clear coatings; this also reminds me how hard it was fighting one's self when you are young

[CynergyDiva]

Wow! Thanks for that. I never even heard of 1K or 2K before.