Expert demonstration · Mike Phillips
Preserving the original paint on a 1969 Corvette
Detailing educator Mike Phillips documented how he used Dr. ColorChip’s Shoe Polish Technique to address extensive paint chips on a Daytona Yellow Corvette as part of a larger preservation project.
Relationship disclosure: Mike Phillips has an affiliate account with Dr. ColorChip and may earn commissions on qualifying purchases made through his referral links or code.
Project and photography: Mike Phillips / Dr. Beasley’s. The completed project included paint correction, touch-up repairs, and ceramic coating. Results vary.
The project
Improve the chips. Keep the character.
The owner wanted to retain the Corvette’s original single-stage Daytona Yellow paint. Mike used Dr. ColorChip to fill clustered chips and reduce their visibility while preserving the existing finish.
Visible chips across the headlight cover.
The headlight cover following Mike’s touch-up work.
These photographs document stages of a professional project under different viewing conditions. The complete project also involved compounding, polishing, and ceramic coating; the overall gloss transformation reflects that full process.
The Shoe Polish Technique
A closer look at clustered chip repair
The technique uses a rubber squeegee to spread touch-up paint across an area of closely grouped chips. SealAct™ blending solution removes excess paint from the surrounding finish while leaving color in the chips. Preparation, application, and gentle blending all matter.
Mike’s extensive touch-up work took approximately 23 hours and nearly six bottles of paint. This was an exceptional professional project. It does not represent the coverage of one kit or the time required for a typical small-chip repair.
For your own repair, follow current Dr. ColorChip product instructions. Contact our team before working on aged, delicate, or coated finishes.
Learn from the full project
Mike Phillips is Chief Education Officer for Dr. Beasley’s and a longtime detailing educator. His original article walks through the Corvette project with detailed photography and technique notes.
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