[rumptyrump]

I'm looking for some information on a paint used in the early 70's. On the can, it was called "Flip Flop" and the color was blue (cant recall who the MFG. was). This was a early version of today's chameleon, but not nearly as radical.

I have a car that was painted using this paint, and I want research the materials.

Thanks!

[TucsonJay]

Flip Flop Pearls used to be refered to as a "murano pearl", which acts differently than a normal pearl.

That brand of paint was made by Metal Flake Company that was the leading source of custom paint, before HOK took over as the leading manufacturer.

I learned how to paint using thier products! They also marketed the leading magazines on how-to-custom-paint. They were peeking during the '70s chopper and van crazes, and were the first place a painter went.

They were a family owned business, and were still operating a couple years ago, as a source for dry flake... and pearl powders... and more. The name has changed to "Metal Flake Corporation".

Try these links which show product description...and a product list with phone numbers as of 3-4 years ago.

http://www.effectlakken.nl/nl/index....gid=2&Itemid=2

http://metalflakecorp.com/originals/pricelist2007.pdf

[TucsonJay]

I found their web site.

It looks like they still offer the Flip Flop powders that would be added to your clear base.

http://www.metalflakecorp.com/mod.ph...=35&page_id=35

[rumptyrump]

TucsonJay -
Sounds like you nailed it. Thank you!!

They don't show the Blue Flip Flop Pearl in the most recent price list. I'll be giving them a call. It could be that the blue velvet is it.

If I understand the dry (powder) option, I can add this to any clear, or mid coat of my choice. It actually sounds like a great option to completely experiment with the look and application.


Thanks again

--Paul

[TucsonJay]

I think you may be right about the "Blue Velvet". I don't remember ever seeing that name... "back in the day". :-)

[Old Fool]

Flip flop pearl was nothing more than lead based pearl. The flip flop happens when you shot blue over red or such. Until the light hits it, its red, where the light hits it it "flips' to blue.
Shot a bunch of Murano pearl in the 70's, was a soft looking pearl, very fine. Use too much Murano and the white clouded the base color, todays powders aren't quite so touchy that ay.

[MARTINSR]

Originally Posted by Old Fool

Flip flop pearl was nothing more than lead based pearl. The flip flop happens when you shot blue over red or such. Until the light hits it, its red, where the light hits it it "flips' to blue.
Shot a bunch of Murano pearl in the 70's, was a soft looking pearl, very fine. Use too much Murano and the white clouded the base color, todays powders aren't quite so touchy that ay.

I remember years ago doing a van conversion that had Murano pearl on it. It had already been taken off the market. I went to a nearby customer painter who was a bit "baked" if you get the idea. He sold me the gold Murano I needed for 5 bucks, I'm thinking he was after a nickel bag.

I still have that pearl up on my "garage god" shelf in my garage as an "offering" to the Big Daddy.

Brian

[rumptyrump]

Originally Posted by Old Fool

Flip flop pearl was nothing more than lead based pearl. The flip flop happens when you shot blue over red or such. Until the light hits it, its red, where the light hits it it "flips' to blue.
Shot a bunch of Murano pearl in the 70's, was a soft looking pearl, very fine. Use too much Murano and the white clouded the base color, todays powders aren't quite so touchy that ay.

Thanks for the info. What else have you seen between today's and older lead based pearls? I guess what I'm asking, in the change of supplies, elimination of lead, lower voc, etc are today materials 100% better? What was "lost" in the transition? What cant be done anymore?


The Blue Flip Flop Perl (by Metalflake corp) was shot on a black base, lightly blended and applied mostly to the body lines. The results were subtle and very beautiful. It really is the exact finish I want to reproduce. Black car, at a quick glance you wouldn't think different. In direct sun, up close you will then notice that the color comes alive. Not heavy on the flake, but a lot of depth bring hues of blue and purple as you walk around.

It sounds like Murano pearl is it, soft and colorful. i've seen it on ebay recently. pricey but worth it if that is my only option....

Thanks!!

[TucsonJay]

Here you go. They are still in business, and still offer the Flip Flop line of pearls.

http://www.metalflakecorp.com/mod.ph...=35&page_id=35

[rumptyrump]

Originally Posted by MARTINSR

I remember years ago doing a van conversion that had Murano pearl on it. It had already been taken off the market. I went to a nearby customer painter who was a bit "baked" if you get the idea. He sold me the gold Murano I needed for 5 bucks, I'm thinking he was after a nickel bag.

I still have that pearl up on my "garage god" shelf in my garage as an "offering" to the Big Daddy.

Brian

I'm still seeing HOK Murano pearl.

Ebay link

anybody use this before? Any good?

Hey if you have any of the "real-deal" Murano in blue, I'd be very interested....Hold the gold for "Big Daddy"