Hi homer, it will be difficult to explain but i will do my best to write it.
after smoothing primer with 2000 sandpaper,some liquid soap( to decrease scratches) and water I come with some basecotes.
(when I smooth primer I will certify that the primer will come glossy and have a smooth semi matt to a little bi glossy.that is the secret.
1st.
Choose a colour (as the BMW I chose the british racing green one)
To mantain the 3 tone green I use some basic silver metalic to fade out the green.
2nd mix the green (1 spoon) with silver (3spoons) , so it will come 1:3 silver.
3rd spray the front (bonnet, mudguards and partly the roof and doors).
4th leave to dry well,preferibly 2 hours.
5th mask the front
IMP the part you are masking must be covered well so there will be no colour diffusion.
6th mix the 1:3 remaining mixed paint (in 2nd step) with 1 spoon of original green and check that colour is darkened from the first you sprayed.
7th leave to dry the second colour and mask again the 2 toned colour together with the first you sprayed(the lighter green).
8th than give the solid colour and leave to dry.
9th remove all masking carefully and slowly.
10th give laquer.
regards ramon
have a look at this