Posted this over on DW, thought I'd see what you guys think:

I'm thinking of doing a 1 day detailing training session but to be honest I'm torn. I can't decide whether it's a good investment to learn a bit more and have an introduction to machine polishing or a bit of a waste of money (my wife's thoughts)

Any input would be appreciated

Do you know anyone into detailing? If so I'd quiz them on products and techniques. Then have a good look over YouTube for instructional videos etc. That is pretty much what I did and whilst I'm only an enthusiast, I'm able to achieve results I'm very happy with. Plus after the initial outlay of cost for a machine, pads, polishes and waxes and so on it's a fairly economical way of keeping your vehicle in good condition. Personally I'd find it difficult to hand over £300 or so to have my car detailed knowing what that could pay for in products.

 

Ultimately though, if you feel it is worth the cost, go for it. It surely can't hurt.

 

Finally, I'd just say don't forget to ask on here if you have any questions; I've always had helpful answers from the usual suspects on this section of the forum. There is plenty of knowledge and experience on here, tap these boys up!

Well said Clarkey.

 

I looked at this myself a year or 2 back..... and its a hard call.

Detailing and associated techniques is not a quick skill to pick-up.

 

Practise, experience and learning on the job accounts for a lot.

 

In the end - i went for the Autobrite Back-2-Basics day with Clive and Kevin.

 

£50 for a group detailing day - working on a couple of cars.

Also some indoors practice with various DA and Rotary options on scrap panels,

plus a discount on the day off anything bought in the AD shop.

 

Turned out to be a useful day and a good start into improving my detailing regime.

Since then - it's just been helping out forum friends, neighbours, work colleagues and building experience.

Well said Clarkey.

 

I looked at this myself a year or 2 back..... and its a hard call.

Detailing and associated techniques is not a quick skill to pick-up.

 

Practise, experience and learning on the job accounts for a lot.

 

In the end - i went for the Autobrite Back-2-Basics day with Clive and Kevin.

 

£50 for a group detailing day - working on a couple of cars.

Also some indoors practice with various DA and Rotary options on scrap panels,

plus a discount on the day off anything bought in the AD shop.

 

Turned out to be a useful day and a good start into improving my detailing regime.

Since then - it's just been helping out forum friends, neighbours, work colleagues and building experience.

 

 

More details on this thread...

 

http://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/374042-autobrite-direct-uk-back-to-basics-day/

Thanks guys, it's £120 for a days tuition so I didn't think it was too bad but then I started thinking what products I could get with it don't have any mates into detailing, I live in Glossop just outside Manchester if anyone local is on here?

That sounds very reasonable to the two places I've looked at.....£300 and £350. I think self tuition can work fine but I also think spending a bit of money to get good one to one tuition is worth doing to maybe get you upto speed quicker? I'd avoid group sessions personally. I guess it depends how much money you have spare vs how serious you wanna take it? If it's for a hobby then you've all the time in the world.....

Great advice above. Never done a detailing day myself, but I think the boys are bang on the money.

If the cost is acceptable for you then you will learn a heck of a lot and it will get you up to speed quicker. It definitely won't hurt.

I started about 9 years ago with a machine, but I think £120 on tuition would have saved me a lot of time;

Good advice Ste,I would love to attend a Autobrite B to B course. The only problem I have is the cost of getting there- £120 for the course, double that to get off the island. Looks like I will have to be self taught!!!!

Tony

Good advice Ste,I would love to attend a Autobrite B to B course. The only problem I have is the cost of getting there- £120 for the course, double that to get off the island. Looks like I will have to be self taught!!!!

Tony

 

When I did the Back to Basics course last year it was only £50, but can see your point about the travelling etc.

 

In your case it might be easier to get a scrap panel and have a go, there are plenty of good how to's on You Tube including ones by the Forensic Detailer and the Junkman.

 

Good Luck

Edited 23 June, 20169 yr by Prykey