[Eric]

I have an ignorant question: I was originally gung-ho about painting my car myself, but was subsequently dissuaded by a number of "unbiased" professional autobody painters from pursuing this. Does anyone have a recommendation for a good resource (book, web site, etc.) for first-time car painters? Can I get good results on a first-time job? Do I need many more tools? Do I need an iolated, filtered-air space in my garage? How long does it take usually? How many coats?

I would love to do it myself as I have an extra set of hood, storage trunk, engine trunk and targa top to play with (I wanted to actually paint a collage on these so I can switch between the "nice" set and the "crazed" set, depending on my mood). Has anyone tried to paint their car with normal paint and then clear-coated it to ge a really nice polished look? I really want a nice gleam when I am finished.

Thanks guys.