What's the process?
It starts with visiting https://velocitycoop.org/ and asking them about getting your frame painted, or contact me directly. From there we decide on color, design. Photos of what you want helps immensely. The process starts with removing the old finish for a full repaint, this is done using appropriate sanding or blast media technique based on the frame composition. Then any cosmetic repairs are made to the frame, following by an epoxy primer, 2-3 coats, then base coat of Urethane auto finish paint (however many stages it requires), lastly a 2k Urethane high solid clear coat is applied, in high gloss, low gloss or matte finish. Bikes are polished as a last step.
What kind of paint/colors do you use?
Any color you want. I can get most colors but I prefer the finishes at https://www.thecoatingstore.com/ If you want a complete, custom color that's your best, fastest option. If you have your own paint, I will consider it but it will depend on the make, how old it is, etc.
Can you match my color?
Matching original color especially on older bikes is difficult and not guaranteed. Often better to just repaint the whole bike than try to match a color perfectly.
Can you repair paint?
Yes but perfect color match is hard to accomplish unless it's a newer bike and the manufacturer still makes the paint. When companies make paint they often have proprietary ingredients to achieve the color they want. Matching paint exactly requires you to have that same formula. You can have paint scanned and color-matched and sometimes this can be so close you don't notice, sometimes not.
How much does it cost?
I only accept donations to https://velocitycoop.org/ as payment for any services. For a full repaint, $300-$500 is the recommended donation based on what you want. Single stage, base color is $300, up to $500 for more complicated finishes.
Will you paint my bike if I pay you a lot of money?
No, this is my hobby and I don't want to fool with sales tax or anything related, the suggested donation is less than the market rate for professional bike painting.
Can your repair frames?
Cosmetic damage like scratches, minor dings or very small dents in aluminum, steel, and alloy yes I will. Any structural damage I will not, but let me see it and I'll tell you. For carbon frames same answer, minor scratches yes but nothing structural nor do I repair carbon that is unbonding. Get a new frame, it's your face.
How long does it take?
Depends on what you want and how busy I am. 2-4 weeks generally, and I will keep you updated as the process goes along.
Can I watch you paint?
No, I have small shop just big enough for me and my setup. I will photograph your frame during the process to show you the steps but I don't want an audience.
Will you teach me to paint?
Probably not, but I am more than happy to answer any questions about painting or how to get started. It's not a cheap hobby. If you want a great place to start check out https://www.youtube.com/@ETOE This man is a god with a paint gun and specialized in bike frames. He has complete videos on process, equipment and the like.
What if you damage my frame/bike during the process?
I will do my best to care for your frame while it's in my possession but I do not offer warranties and all risk is assumed by you. Part of the reason I don't want paid is I don't want insurance or have to deal with any of that. If your paint finish has issues, I will repair the work I did. If I damage your frame during painting I will repair/replace it at my discretion. All frames are inspected and catalogued for any damage when I get them.
What kind of equipment do use?
I use 3M, Anest Iwata and Paasche paint guns, always wear a good respirator when working with paints and solvents, and ensure you have good ventilation.
What about multi-color paints, logos, and custom graphics?
I can replace original or near original factory logos, if they are still in print. Otherwise I can paint the logos but it will depend on what you want. Custom graphics are also an option in either vinyl or paint. I can paint any color combo you want from multi-color, metallic, pearls, chameleon, whatever. The more complicated the pattern, the longer it takes.
Will you take a bike with all the components on it?
Generally prefer a stripped frame but this is negotiable.
Will you build my bike after painting?
Maybe, if you provide the components and I'm familiar with the bike. Full restoration will increase your donation obligation
Will you paint something obscene or swear words on my frame?
I am a firm believer in the 1st Amendment, sure.
It's not a bike but will you paint my ______?
Maybe, it depends on if I think paint will bond to it and what it is. Just ask.