Whether you chose to use the design of pinstriping on your custom motorcycle or simply on a hot rod, there are a few basics of pinstriping that can help you to create the perfect design. Although the popularity of building custom motorcycles and decorating them in a way that reflects you personal style is slowly increasing, pinstriping vehicles has been around since the 1950’s. As technology began to advance, there were more vehicles to decorate with pinstripes. The use of two colors complimenting one another has since, become a popular way of design.

The first thing you need to know in the basics of pinstriping are the different methods that are typically used. The point of pinstriping is to set off the body of the vehicle and the line itself by using colors that work well together. In order to create the perfect design, it is important to choose colors that will stand out and will set your vehicle apart from all the others. Especially when building a custom motorcycle, creativity is very important. Once you have the decided the colors, you need to figure out the method you will use.

One method that is very popular is using templates. Many people advise this method because it allows you to create perfect designs every time. The stripes will also have an even width to create that perfect look which can be difficult if you are painting freehand. The templates hold to the surface of vehicles in order to make the work much easier.

Stencil tape is also very helpful when creating pinstripes. The tape allows you to work freehand, but still ensures that perfect look. Stencil tape is very beneficial for pinstriping because you do not have to wait for one color to dry so you can apply another color. Since pinstriping requires the use of two colors, using stencil tape is often recommended.

Freehand is another method, but to use this method, it is important to understand the basics of pinstriping and how to create the best look. Since you do not have a guideline or a way of measuring the distance of each stripe, freehand, takes a careful hand and a precise eye to produce the perfect look.

If you still want to create this unique look, but are not the most artistic person, there are body shops that will the work for you. Although this may cost a little bit more money than brushes and a pinstriping kit, it will hopefully ensure a perfect job.

It is most important to understand these basics of pinstriping otherwise you may do the design or apply the paint incorrectly. These basic steps are extremely important to the design of whatever vehicle you decide to add pinstripes to. An understanding of how the paint works and the best way to get the look you what is necessary for getting pinstripes that look professional.

If you are looking to continue with the popular design technique of pinstriping, there are supplies you will need to create the best look possible. Pinstriping can be very difficult if you are not prepared with the proper tools. Ever since the 1950’s, pinstriping has been a common way of decorating basically any vehicle. As time went on, pinstriping has come a long way and is even used to decorate custom motorcycles. There are many methods that can be used for pinstriping and it is important that you understand how the supplies work for future pinstriping projects.

To begin with, one of the first items to add to your list of pinstriping supplies is the brush. Typically, the brushes have a precision handle that provides comfort and an ease of painting the stripes. The bristles can vary in their thickness in order to create a variety of designs. Some of them have been designed to be extremely thin in order to create a contrast between the lines as well as allow you to make intricate, interesting designs. Especially if you are using these pinstriping supplies to paint on a custom motorcycle, the more unique the design, the better.

Different color paints are also obvious, but important pinstriping supplies. Basecoat striping paints can be very important when creating the perfect colors. The best part about pinstriping is selecting colors that set off the background of the bike as well as the other colors that are used. Basecoat paints can help achieve that perfect look while preventing rust. Enamel will also be needed to help make the design shine and give a glossy look.

While actually painting, you will want to get pinstriping supplies such as stencil tape, small sticks to mix the paint colors and even pinstriping kits. All of the supplies will help make painting the stripes much neater and help the process move faster. However, if you decide to create the pinstripes freehand, you will not need stencil tape or templates because these are solely used for those who do not want to paint the design themselves or may not be the most artistic.

Other important pinstriping supplies include those that aid in keeping the brushes themselves. It is likely you will use the brushes more than once and so, you will want to have supplies that help keep the brushes working after the first use. Stoddard solvent is important because after use, you will be required to soak the brushes to remove excess paint. If you do not have this solvent, the brushes will harden and you will not be able to use them again.

As with any project, it is important to have the necessary supplies available to you. Being prepared allows the project to go a lot faster. Especially with pinstriping, supplies can be very important because the design may not come out as you planned.

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Each pinstriping design is unique, creating a personal touch to any vehicle. Since pinstriping designs are so intricate, no one design looks the same. You can create pinstriping designs using templates with grooves, tape stencils, or the most difficult method, freehand. Each pinstripe design consists of two colors: the main body and the line. With either method, your vehicle will stand out and show your personalized style.

The first pinstriping design method, also one of the most common, is the use of templates. These templates are a great way to begin pinstriping designs because it gives you a guide throughout the project. By choosing templates containing grooves, you are able to create a pinstripe design consisting of different depths and textures. This method of pinstriping design also allows a variety of colors to be utilized with more simplicity. Using the templates allows the work to be much neater.

The second method of pinstriping designs, are tape stencils. Tape stencils for pinstripe designs are available in a large variety of different applications. While applying tape stencils to create your pinstripe design, it is very important to use specific pinstriping brushes. These brushes will ensure the quality of your pinstripe design. A benefit from the use of tape stencils is that it allows you to apply multiple colors without waiting for the other applied stripes to dry. This method of application is an excellent way to experiment with pinstripe designs.

Freehand designing is the most difficult and is an extremely intricate process in the application of pinstripe designs. This process, unlike the others, requires much more practice to master the pinstripe design. Although this method remains very difficult, it holds no restrictions during the creation of your pinstripe design. In order to keep the pinstripe design organized and neat, masking tape is required to be laid down as an outline of the design.

It is important to remember paint can easily drip under the edge and so auto body masking tape should be used while creating your freehand pinstriping design. After following this method, your pinstriping design will express your individual artistic flavor more so than stencils.
Although it is ultimately up to the designer, two colors are usually used while creating pinstripe designs. The first color in pinstriping designs sets off the body of your vehicle. The second color commonly used, is the color for the thin line that contrasts and may decide how many colors will be included in your pinstripe design.

Pinstriping designs hold fast to steel surfaces, allowing the design to remain over a period of time. No matter what method of application used, pinstriping designs add a distinctive look to your vehicle. Just remember, the materials chosen should always suit your artistic level as you create your intricate pinstripe design.

When customizing your vehicle, pinstriping adds a great artistic touch matching anyone’s individual taste. The key element to pinstriping is choosing the perfect pinstriping brush. Pinstriping brushes come in a variety of different sizes, allowing you to easily show your own unique style.  Pinstriping brushes have a distinctive structure, giving the pinstriper the freedom of comfort and control while creating pinstripe designs. Much like any other tool, pinstriping brushes require specific cleaning and storage procedures. Ultimately, pinstriping brushes will enhance your performance in designing your own personalized work of art.

Pinstriping brushes are designed to add a lot of comfort and control while actually using the tool. The handles of pinstriping brushes usually consist of a wood, plastic, or metal dowel. The dowel is used to bind the material together, creating a handle specifically designed for using the brush in any way. The slick bristles of pinstriping brushes are usually made from squirrel hair or even goat hair. Due to the smooth materials used, you will be able to swiftly move the pinstriping brush between your fingers and freely glide it along your working surface. The dowels of the pinstriping brushes are short, preventing the dowel from hitting the palm of your hand. The dowel also adds balance to the pinstriping brush, making it easier for you to create freehand designs. Much like many other tools, the material of which the pinstriping brush is made out of can enhance your overall performance.

Once the pinstriping brush has been used, it is important to properly clean the brush, as the hardening paint will damage the delicate bristles. First, you will be required to soak the brush in mineral spirits, also known as Stoddard solvent. This solution will thin the paint, releasing it from the pinstriping brush and making it easier to clean.  Next, you must lay the pinstriping brush out and gently work through the hairs, eliminating any other paint residue. This simple procedure will keep your pinstriping brush in superior condition and allowing you to use it more often.

In between uses, pinstriping brushes must be stored due to the delicate hairs of the brush. Unlike other painting brushes, pinstriping brushes must be stored submerged in clean brush oil. This oil allows your delicate pinstriping brush to continuously condition its hairs in between uses. This will allow the hairs of the pinstriping brush to continue to stay soft for future uses.

While pinstriping brushes are essential to your artistic design, the maintenance of the brushes is equally important. The creative structure of the pinstriping brushes allows freedom during your artistic adventure. Although pinstriping brushes are simple to handle, proper cleaning and storage procedures must be followed after each use. With all procedures followed correctly, your pinstriping brush will continue to satisfy your artistic needs.

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If you are looking to continue with the popular design technique of pinstriping, there are supplies you will need to create the best look possible. Pinstriping can be very difficult if you are not prepared with the proper tools. Ever since the 1950’s, pinstriping has been a common way of decorating basically any vehicle. As time went on, pinstriping has come a long way and is even used to decorate custom motorcycles. There are many methods that can be used for pinstriping and it is important that you understand how the supplies work for future pinstriping projects.

 

To begin with, one of the first items to add to your list of pinstriping supplies is the brush. Typically, the brushes have a precision handle that provides comfort and an ease of painting the stripes. The bristles can vary in their thickness in order to create a variety of designs. Some of them have been designed to be extremely thin in order to create a contrast between the lines as well as allow you to make intricate, interesting designs. Especially if you are using these pinstriping supplies to paint on a custom motorcycle, the more unique the design, the better.

 

Different color paints are also obvious, but important pinstriping supplies. Basecoat striping paints can be very important when creating the perfect colors. The best part about pinstriping is selecting colors that set off the background of the bike as well as the other colors that are used. Basecoat paints can help achieve that perfect look while preventing rust. Enamel will also be needed to help make the design shine and give a glossy look.   

While actually painting, you will want to get pinstriping supplies such as stencil tape, small sticks to mix the paint colors and even pinstriping kits. All of the supplies will help make painting the stripes much neater and help the process move faster. However, if you decide to create the pinstripes freehand, you will not need stencil tape or templates because these are solely used for those who do not want to paint the design themselves or may not be the most artistic.

 
Other important pinstriping supplies include those that aid in keeping the brushes themselves. It is likely you will use the brushes more than once and so, you will want to have supplies that help keep the brushes working after the first use. Stoddard solvent is important because after use, you will be required to soak the brushes to remove excess paint. If you do not have this solvent, the brushes will harden and you will not be able to use them again.

As with any project, it is important to have the necessary supplies available to you. Being prepared allows the project to go a lot faster. Especially with pinstriping, supplies can be very important because the design may not come out as you planned.

Custom car accessories help gearheads to soccer moms personalize their rides and improve resale value. Dealer service departments can guide your ride customization effort, installing custom
features and ensuring you meet warranty guidelines.

Breaking down the hot trends.
Hip accessories abound. Choose from rims to running boards, spoilers to grills, and stereos to sunroofs.

Lighting (neon, strobe, and fluorescent) is a top customization trend. Clearance lamps and fog lights are also popular.

Raise your car’s profile with wheels and lift kits.

Cool wheels are another hot trend. Choose from a variety of styles, including white walls or monster tires. Custom rims make a huge impact on a car’s look and resale value.

Do you prefer a big bruiser or stylish low rider? A body lift kit raises the body from the frame so that taller tires can be installed. Suspension lifts improve clearance between axles and the ground. You get better results in terms of height, handling and ground clearance.

On the flip side: lowering kits make vehicles look sleek and mean. They also improve handling and response by dropping a vehicle’s center of gravity for better stability in turns.

Body shop artists at RK Auto Group say color is IN this season.

Another way to change a vehicle’s look is by painting it with bright non-factory colors. RK Chevrolet has a state-of-the-art downdraft paint booth that gives the finest finishes available outside of the factory. Don’t forget pinstriping, custom flames, interior painting
of dash panels or powder coating of vehicle components.

Want more options? RK Auto Group suggests talking with your local dealer today.

© 2006 RK Auto Group

Tom Kline is Controller of RKAutoGroup.net (RK Buick, RK Chevrolet, RK Subaru, RK Scion and RK Toyota).

During his 15-year tenure Kline has worked in the Sales Department of RK Auto Group, Parts, Service and Body Shop, Leasing, Collections, and Management Information Services.

RK Auto Group, located in Southeast Virginia, has been recognized as one of the top 100 Chevrolet dealerships in the nation. Founded in 1964, this award-winning dealership sells approximately 9,000 vehicles per year.

RK Chevrolet is the recipient of Chevrolet Motor Division’s coveted Service Supremacy Award four years in a row. This is an award which less than 8% of the nation's Chevrolet dealers have won. In 1998, RK received the prestigious "Genuine Leaders Award" for excellence in sales, service, and customer satisfaction. The dedication of each employee at RK Auto Group made these awards possible.

Before we talk about the different auto pinstriping methods we need to cover a couple of basic points :

1) Pinstripes are usually done in two colors: one that compliments the body color, and another, thin line, which contrasts to make the stripe stand out. There are no rules: color choice is a matter of personal preference …. and imagination !!!

2) Make sure the surface to pinstripe is absolutely clean. Get rid of all residue with a good pre-surface preparation product

OK, now to the different auto pinstriping techniques :

Mechanical Pinstriping

A mechanical auto pinstriping is the best for striping long areas like trucks, vans, or station wagons. The main advantage is that it puts down stripes of consistent width, letting you concentrate more on keeping the contour of the stripe aligned along your work surface. The Buegler pinstriper and accessories are one of the preferred by body shops and pinstripers for their high quality construction and consistent operation. The easiest way to use a Buegler striper is to set up your stripe line using a magnetic auto pinstriping strip. It adheres firmly to steel surfaces, forms mild curves, and has a center groove designed with the Buegler's guide arm in mind. The strip can also act as a guide for your hand.

Striping with Stencil Tape

There are several different stencil tapes that are suitable for almost any auto pinstriping application. Stencil tapes let you lay down stripes of different colors without waiting for the other stripes to dry.

Stencil tape striping requires brushes: the pinstriping brush is the most important element for an excellent final result.

Freehand Striping

This auto pinstriping method is the most advanced one and requires the most practice to master, but offers unlimited flexibility. The easiest method for the freehand striping novice is to lay down a strip of masking tape about ¼ inch from where you would like the line to be. Use the tape as a visual guide for your stripes. Do not use standard masking tape for edging pinstripes. the pinstriping paint will seep and bleed under the edge of standard masking tape. The pinstriping can be as plain or as fancy as your patience and level of skill allows.

Regardless of the design, pinstriping is one of the best ways to make your vehicle very unique. Like anything worth doing right, practice will make worthwhile results …. and having the best possible supplies is critical too.

Marc Deschamps is the editor of CarAccessoriesMagazine, a free online publication dedicated to automotive accessories, car care and related topics. Other articles full of information, tips and advice can be found at
http://www.car-accessories-magazine.com.

 

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Prior to the invention of the car, pin striping was being used as ornamental decoration on horse drawn buggies, coaches and carriages.

However, the use of pinstripes to customize cars began to appear on them during the middle of the 1950’s.  Even though it seems that pin striping had in fact been appearing on cars prior to this time and the last American car to appear with pin striping on it straight from the factory was made by General Motors towards the end of the 1930’s.  For many people who own muscle or sports cars today, customizing their vehicle is as important as actually owning and showing the vehicle off and pin striping seems to add those final finishing touches.

Normally pinstripes appear on a car using two colours, the first is used to help set off the body colour and then the second thinner line is used in a contrasting colour to make sure that the stripe actually stands out.

Nowadays, mechanical pin striping is the best method for applying stripes to larger vehicles such as trucks, vans or station wagons (RV’s).  This system ensures that the stripes being laid down are of a constant width and allows you to focus more of your attention on getting the stripe placed correctly on the vehicles surface.  This can be done using magnetic pin striping strips with a central groove which is designed to be used as a paint template.  They are specifically designed to hold fast on to any steel surface and can also be used a guide line for your hand when actually doing the work.

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Another way of pin striping a vehicle is to use stencil tape.  You will soon find that there are several kinds of stencil tape available which are suitable for using when carrying out pin striping on a car.  However, with this method you will need to use brushes and the purchasing of a pin striping brush is essential if you want the project to be a success.  The benefit of this method is that you are able to apply different colour stripes to your vehicle
without having to wait for the other stripes to dry.

The last method for pin striping is Freehand and this is certainly the most difficult and requires a lot of practice before it is mastered fully.  However, it does allow the person carrying out the pin striping to have more freedom in relation to what they create on their vehicle.  The best way any freehand pin striping newbie can do is lay a strip of masking tape about ¼ inch down from where the finished line will be and then use this as a visual guide when painting on your stripes.  However, remember you should not use regular masking tape otherwise the pin striping paint will actually bleed under the edge you can purchase auto body masking tape from any reputable automobile supply shop/store.

At the end of the day it does not matter which method of pin striping you decide to use, just remember it is a great way of making your car look that little bit different from the rest.  But it is like anything else, practice makes perfect and by having the best equipment as well to use will help also.