Master craftsmen course for highly-polished skilled crafts people

Vehicle varnishers face a demanding examination programme at the Coblenz Chamber of Trade.

An entire vehicle is given its external paintwork in two-layer metallic or water-based pearl effect, a motorcycle tank also needs to be painted, a logo with specific text must be developed for a driving school invented on the spot "Schneider — Drive Experience", labelling needs to be applied to a vehicle and an graphic design of their own choice must be realised in paint. All work must be documented and — to realistically reflect day-to-day work in the skilled crafts — a costing must be prepared.

A mammoth programme — demanding and technically wide-ranging, with no room for errors. If you apply the paint gun incorrectly, lose your relaxed hand control for a second, or make an incorrect calculation, it may be the end of your master craftsman examination.

20 trained vehicle varnishers have now accepted this challenge and are on the master craftsman course in a skilled craft which is all about bright colours and high polish. Andreas Nett from Kelberg, Harry Henschel from Ochtendung and Paul Molko from Kaifenheim are the first three to face the challenges in the practical technical element.

Following preparation over many months, it is now all about precise recall of everything that has been learned, as well as holding your nerves under the watchful eyes of Bernd Gerardy, Chair of the Examination Committee.

"A few nerves are certainly good for staying alert. But somehow you always get the feeling there is not enough time and you are too nervous. I'll be happy when it's done," explains Harry Henschel, who is completely focused on putting the final touches to his master craftsman examination piece — a Mazda MX 5. The classic is a first generation model and over 20 years old.

The skilled work carried out at the hands of Harry Henschel and his significant expertise means that the roadster is now radiant with its grass-green metallic coat and black roof. A real eye-catcher, which is certified as such beyond any doubt by the examination committee. The result is a masterpiece!