Hey there - I have done my HSII with 2 pac gloss black before decal, and then clear coated after decal. I have an automotive accident repair business. With mine I applied a wood sealer first, then I applied the same primer surfacer I would on a car (this is after filler) After cutting back and re applying this primer again I then went with the gloss black. After applying the decal I clear coated. It was extremely time consuming and the project consumed a lot of product. Having said that anyone who sees that cabinet is blown away by it. Just remember when using automotive paint any imperfections at all on your surface will me magnified (the glossy finish accentuates it) you really need to spend a heap of time on prep, much more than you would with a satin finish.