How to Use VHT Wrinkle Paint

Let me start by saying that this guide is based on my personal experience with VHT wrinkle paint, so bear in mind that factors like humidity, temperature, material and other conditions can impact your results. While nothing is guaranteed, my tips might help you achieve a great outcome. Let’s dive into what I’ve learned! 

Why VHT Wrinkle Paint? 

VHT wrinkle paint is a great product with a really cool, textured look. When done well, it can give your bike a unique, neat finish. I think it looks especially good on crankcases, valve covers, and other small engine covers, like the ignition cover. But for exhausts, I’d recommend sticking with regular heat-resistant paint, and for a starter engine, something like matte black or a standard heat resistant paint usually works best. 

Prepping the Surface 

Now let’s focus on the valve cover. If it’s made of aluminum or metal, start by sandblasting it or use a metal or bronze brush on an angle grinder or drill to expose the bare metal. Don’t worry about small scratches, this paint is thick enough to cover minor imperfections. 

Before applying the wrinkle paint, I found that using VHT’s white primer made a difference. This primer is also heat-resistant and provides a better base. Apply three coats of primer: the first layer should be a light mist, kind of like a haze over the surface. Let this sit for about 10 minutes. Then, apply a more solid coat and wait around 45 minutes before adding a third coat. After the last coat, let it dry for about two hours until the surface feels hard. 

Apply the wrinkle paint in three layers: 

1. The first layer should be a light mist, just like you did with the primer 

1. Wait 10 minutes, then add a thicker, even layer without letting it drip 

1. Wait at least 30-45 minutes, then apply the third and final coat 

The Wrinkle Effect 

Now for the most important part—getting that wrinkle effect! After the final coat, let it sit for at least two to three hours. You want the surface to be shiny and smooth (without any wrinkling yet), and it should feel hard and sticky but not wet. 

Once it’s ready, put the part in a preheated oven at about 100°C for 5–10 minutes. You should start to see the wrinkle effect appearing. If the effect is even across the surface, you’re done! 

If it’s not quite there, let the part cool down, apply one more coat of wrinkle paint, and repeat the drying and baking process. This should give you a better result. 

Two Golden Rules 

1. Don’t put the part in the oven if the paint is still wet 

1. Don’t wait too long to put it in the oven. If the wrinkle effect starts showing before baking, it’s too late, and the final result might not be as crisp. 

Don’t forget to have fun with this process! In the end, it’s all worth it and it looks great! 

Down below you will find pictures of my engine. The engine itself is done with primer and paint from VHT and the valve covers are done with VHT wrinkle paint. 

FAQ

How does wrinkle paint work? 

Wrinkle paint works best on a thoroughly cleaned surface. After applying the paint, you’ll need to bake the part in the oven at 93°C for 20 minutes. No oven big enough? You can also use your bike’s engine heat if it’s a good fit! 

How do you spray wrinkle paint? 

Simply spray the wrinkle paint directly from the can onto the clean surface. The key is to apply it evenly, not too thin or too thick. This balance will give you the best results and the most consistent wrinkle effect. 

Is wrinkle paint durable? 

Yes, wrinkle paint is a very tough type of paint. It can withstand high heat and stays looking fresh, so you don’t have to worry about frequent touch-ups or scratches over time. 

How do you remove VHT wrinkle paint? 

Removing wrinkle paint is no easy job, since it’s designed to last. You’ll need a paint stripper that’s safe for your bike’s parts and a bit of patience to get it off. 

Can you paint over wrinkle paint? 

With wrinkle paint you only need one layer. It is designed to be a one-and-done layer that offers a great finish and durability, and most Cafe Racer builders leave it as is once it’s done. 

Can you use wrinkle paint on plastic? 

No, since wrinkle paint needs to be "cooked" in the oven at 93°C, it’s not suitable for plastic parts that would melt at high temperatures. 

Does VHT wrinkle paint need lacquer? 

No lacquer needed! The beauty of wrinkle paint is that it provides its own finish, giving a nice texture and protective seal once it’s fully baked and cured. 

Does VHT wrinkle paint need primer? 

Wrinkle paint actually acts as its own primer on a clean surface. Just make sure the parts you’re painting are thoroughly cleaned for the best adhesion and final look.