the general rule of thumb is start with the lighter colour first and work toward the darker as the lighter colour takes more to cover ... i would put first colour down then mask with a good 3m fineline 6mm masking tape(done soon after the first colour will no longer mark)you will not need to snick it with 1200 before applying the second colour... once second colour is masked then painted (only put enough paint on to just cover so the paint edge is minimal) then apply your clear coats then snick and buu... hope this helps