Corvette: How to Wrap Your Corvette Parts in Carbon Fiber

This article applies to the C5, C6 and C7 Corvette (1997-current).

The popularity of carbon fiber has exploded within the past several years. Although carbon fiber is designed to reduce weight, obtaining the "carbon fiber" look has become a desired styling feature on many Corvette parts. Ever since the 2006 C6 Corvette was upgraded to include some carbon fiber parts, along with this continuing trend into the C7, the Corvette community has had a new buzz to talk about. The process of skinning or wrapping your parts can easily be done with a little time and patience. Compared to the professional cost, which varies depending on the size and complexity of the parts you wish to wrap, the DIY cost mainly accounts for the price of a wrap kit.

Step 1 – Sand part to be wrapped

Using the coarsest sandpaper in the kit (150 grit), sand the surface of the area that is to be covered with carbon fiber. This creates a surface on which the primer layer can bond.

Step 2 – Mix base coat and apply

In a paper cup, mix the black base coat and hardener in a 2:1 ratio. For example, if 100 grams of base coat is needed to cover the part, mix it with 50 grams of the hardener. Stir continuously for about one minute, and do not create bubbles while stirring. Unwanted air bubbles will transfer to the surface of the part during application.

Step 3 – Apply base coat

With a brush, apply an even, thin coat to the surfaces that will be wrapped. Do not apply too much as the coat will run. Once covered, let the base coat dry until it is tacky and does not come off when you touch it. This curing process should take about 3-4 hours. In that time, clean your brush but do not discard any of the remaining base coat mixture.

Step 4 – Inspect the base coat application and touch up for complete coverage

While waiting for the base coat to cure, inspect the part and reapply the mixture where necessary. Without proper coverage, the carbon fiber will not adhere to the part. Given that some time has elapsed, the mixture will have hardened a bit. You will have to stir it again, but the slightly thicker mixture will be easier to apply in areas where there may have been run-off during the initial application.

Step 5 – Apply the carbon fiber fabric

After the piece has been cured to tack, the carbon fiber fabric is ready to be applied. Cut the fabric with a surface area that is larger than the designated part. Carefully place the fabric over the part and rub it down to secure it to the part. Start from the center and work toward the edges. Make sure there are no bubbles or gaps between the fabric and the part. The fabric will stretch and compress where needed, so do not expose too much of the part (by stretching) or bunch the fabric (due to compression).

Step 6 – Trim off and wrap the excess fabric

With sharp scissors, trim off some excess fabric, leaving just enough to fold underneath, and tape the part (or an area that will not be seen once the part is re-installed).

Step 7 – Apply the initial layer of clear-coat

Apply the first layer of clear-coat to the covered part. Using the same 2:1 ratio, mix the clear epoxy with the hardener and be sure not to create bubbles. Using a brush, slowly apply it in the same way you applied the base coat, creating a nice, thin and even layer. Blow-dry the part on low heat to bring any air bubbles to the surface and pop. Let the part cure for at least 8 hours (possibly overnight).

Step 8 – Scuff up surface with sand paper

Once the surface has cured and is hard to the touch, use 150-grit sand paper to scuff up the surface. This will remove any protruding spots on the surface, but do not overdo it. You are only trying to even out the surface to apply another layer of clear-coat.

Step 9 – Apply additional layers of clear-coat

To ensure that the carbon fiber fabric is completely saturated, apply additional (at least 2-3 more) layers of clear-coat. It is not necessary to key the surface after each application unless you find high or rough spots that need to be removed.

Step 10 – Sand from coarse to fine

After the part has totally cured (24 hours), use the 150-grit sandpaper to wet-sand the surface one more time. To do so, apply a small amount of soapy water on the sandpaper, which will prevent clogs from adhering to the paper. If clumping still occurs or you are not seeing a fine, grey dust, your part is not fully cured. Repeat this process successively using a finer grit of sandpaper until you have reached the 1200-grit sandpaper. Change the water after each grade of sandpaper so any previous sanded material in the water does not scratch the clear-coat. Completely wipe down the part after each change in sandpaper grade.

Step 11 – Polish to shine

Once you have achieved a smooth, satin finish using the 1200-grit sandpaper, the part is ready to be polished. Apply rubbing compound (often supplied in the kit) to a rag and apply it to the surface of the part in a circular motion. Buff the part up to its final shine and wipe off any excess compound. A small amount of detail mist can enhance the shine even more.

Related Discussion

• DIY Carbon Fiber Skinning - CorvetteForum.com