COLOR ADJUSTING IN SPA AND BATH WARE REPAIR: MASTERING THE ART OF MATCHING
In the world of spa and bathware repair, color matching is both a science and an art. At Multi-Tech Products, we understand the nuances of this process and provide resources to help technicians achieve the perfect match
Understanding Color Variations in Manufacturing
Subtle Differences
Variations in pigments and manufacturing conditions, such as in acrylic sheet production and thermoforming, lead to slight differences in the final product’s color. These can be accentuated by factors like material thickness and underlying reinforcements
The Challenge of Translucency
Acrylic sheets, when heated and stretched, can become translucent, especially at the base of a bathtub. This translucency, coupled with the color of fiberglass reinforcement, can alter the perceived color, similar to the variations seen in carpet manufacturing
Toning: The Key to an Ideal Match
The Role of Toners
To achieve the best color match, adjusting the base coat’s tone can be essential. Multi-Tech Products provides an array of toners and toner kits specifically for this purpose. The simplest adjustments involve lightening or darkening the colorusing white or black toners
Visual Perception Skills
Successful color matching requires the ability to discern subtle shade differences and understand the color shift requirements. Practice and skill development are crucial.
Practical Toner Range and Color Guide
Toner Selection
Our toner kits are tailored to our various repair systems and refinish coatings. Understanding the shades within a color family and visual comparison are key to successful adjustments.
PDF Guide
For basic understanding, our guide, available for download TONING AND COLOR MATCHING GUIDE outlines the primary colors within each range.
The Adjustment Process
It involves applying the matched mixture, comparing shades visually, and adjusting with toners. This iterative process aims for an acceptable color match.
Simplified Color Matching Technique
Essential Toners: Most common bathware colors, including White, Biscuit, Almond-Bone, Grey, and Rose, can be matched using a white base with black (brown-black),yellow oxide, and red oxide toners. This principle applies across various surfaces andindustries.
Toner Kits for Different Skill Levels
Primary Toner Kit
Ideal for beginners, including Black, Red Oxide, Yellow Oxide, Green, and Blue.
Secondary Toner Kit
For advanced color matching, featuring Chrome Yellow, Raspberry, Orange, Violet, and Blue/Black.
Complete Toner Kit
A comprehensive set with all colors and separate toners.
Color Science and Measurement Technology
Numerical Definition of Color
Using L, “a”, and “b” values, colors can be accurately defined in a three-dimensional space.
Advanced Measurement Tools
Spectrophotometers, particularly geometric spectrophotometers, offer precise color measurement, closely simulating the visual experience and surpassing the capabilities of traditional colorimeters.