It's a direct match just the same as a touchup pen. They mix it like a autobody shop does and they just put it in a spray can. Obviously trying to match a pearl color isn't going to turn out that great. Also remember this is an spray can, it's not going to be the same spray quality as a gun. It works though and they sell clear coats as well. I used it to touch up some rust spots after removing the rear wing.