Gelcoat Matching

[abl1111]

This is the most challenging part of any repair I've done.

Structural - once given the spec and 'how to', is easy.
Finish & Gelcoat match - not so much...

I've watched Youtube etc., and just cannot seem to get the color right ( or even close enough for my liking )

Anybody have a fail-proof method ? Besides sending it out to a gelcoat matcher ?

Oh, and the last question - when making a repair and laying the final laminate glass layer, how much of a depression do you try to leave for the gelcoat ?

[Bushwacker]

Gel coat is brittle and the thicker it is, the more likely it is to crack. I don't think I'd want it thicker than about 0.020".

[cdlong]

Keep trying. I made 3 batches before I got what I call "real close". First picture is first batch. Second picture is third batch. Bad thing is now I have to grind all the previous batches out and redo them. KEEP account of your mix colors and drops. Toss those small tubes of tint and buy the big ones. A lot easier to get uniform drops for the mix.