Marq- that looks good to me. I couldn't explain it for certain, but it also seems that my THIN layers do not have the gloss that a thicker layer has.

The addition of too much of the mineral spirits stretches the paint to a point that the paint cannot form it's hard protective surface (?).

Not sure. It sure makes a hell of a difference if I spray it though.. rock hard and shiny. Thick coat of rustoleum and penetrol, rock hard and shiny.

I could always use a roller and put a thicker mixture on, say one coat, but I think it will be easier and funner to spray it. Plus if all else fails and I end up putting real car paint on it, I'll have some practice shooting.

Is there an automotive paint that doesn't contain isocyanates?