<div class="htmlview paragraph">(Paint) film as an alternative to spray applied paint has received growing attention in recent years. The potential for economic and environmental advantage and quality enhancement with this technology has been reported in several technical papers (<span class="xref">Ref. 1</span>, <span class="xref">3</span> and <span class="xref">4</span>).</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">The actual practice of film finishing, however, has received only limited notice.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Film finishes have been applied to aluminum, stainless steel, PVC, and ABS. Starting in 1982, part applications include: wheel covers, door edge guards, window surrounds, roof drip moldings, lower windshield moldings, rocker panels, body side moldings, B pillars, and A pillars.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Industry awareness and acceptance of film finishing as a viable alternative to spray applied paint is increasing. The two technologies are similar in many ways, yet distinctly different in other ways. They share a common goal: To yield a durable finish, economically and with superior visual impact.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">This paper reviews the unique aspects of film finishing.</div>