Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Answers to the most common questions about pinstriping: clear coat, cost, duration, and paint preparation.
Can pinstriping be sealed with a clear coat?
The pinstriping is applied with 1 Shot paint, which has excellent adhesion to almost all surfaces (paint, metal, glass). The paint air-dries, is dry after a few hours, and fully cured after 24 hours. Theoretically, it is possible to seal pinstriping with a clear coat IF:
- The clear coat must be a solvent-free clear coat (e.g. water-based).
- The pinstriping should be fully cured for at least 48 hours, preferably 72 hours (3 days).
- The clear coat must be applied thinly. Thick layers lead to cracking.
We generally advise against clear coat sealing. Modern pinstriping paints are very durable. Pinstriping can last many years without sealing. If you have concerns or questions, please contact me beforehand.
How much does pinstriping cost?
The costs are very individual and depend on various factors:
- Size and complexity of the motif.
- Number of colours.
- Condition of the surface (e.g. paint preparation is necessary).
- Location (Do I have to travel or do you send the part?).
Prices usually start at 50,- Pounds for a very small, simple motif. For an exact price quote, please send me a sketch or a detailed description of the desired pinstriping.
How long does pinstriping take?
The pure painting time for an average motif (e.g. on a motorbike tank) is about 1 to 3 hours**. The time can vary depending on the motif size, complexity, and the necessity of freehand or stencil work. In addition, there is the drying time of the paint. The object is transport-ready after approx. 24 hours**.
How must the surface (paint) be prepared?
The surface must be clean, dry, and grease-free. Ideally, the paint should be polished and free of wax, silicone, or oil residues. Tip: A simple cleaning with a mild degreaser (like silicone remover) shortly before pinstriping is sufficient.
What do I need hand-lining for?
Hand-lining is often used on historic vehicles (classic cars), tractors, and classic motorbikes to restore or refine the original look. They emphasise body edges and give the vehicle a noble, handcrafted character.
What paints are used?
I exclusively use high-quality, durable, and colourfast 1 Shot enamel paints or comparable products, which are specially developed for this type of work. These paints offer excellent durability and UV resistance.
Can I take my pinstriped vehicle through a car wash?
Yes and no. Once the paint is fully cured after about 10 to 14 days, it is technically car-wash resistant, but the washing slats can sometimes be very damaging to the lacquer. Therefore, we recommend hand washing to best preserve the lacquer’s shine and the fine edges of the lines. Be careful when polishing: since the lines sit raised on the surface, avoid using abrasive polishes or polishing machines directly on the pinstripes.
Can pinstriping be removed later?
On a well-cured original factory finish, pinstriping can usually be carefully removed even after years using special cleaners or a fine polish, without damaging the original paint. It is not necessarily a decision for eternity, even though the paint is designed for permanent durability.
Do you only paint on sheet metal or on other materials too?
Pinstriping works on almost all smooth surfaces. In addition to vehicle parts, I also design helmets, bags, instruments (guitars), glass surfaces, or even furniture. Each material requires individual preparation – just get in touch with me.
Do I have to bring my vehicle in person?
Not necessarily. Many customers send me dismantled parts like tanks, fenders, or helmets well-packaged by post. After completion and drying, I send the refined pieces back to you securely. For complete vehicles, we are also happy to arrange individual appointments on-site.
Do you also offer work with Gold Leaf?
Yes, gold or silver leaf accents are an excellent addition to pinstriping. Real gold leaf or composition metal is applied and often framed with fine pinstriping outlines to achieve a particularly high-quality and classic look.
What is the advantage over a decal or sticker?
Pinstriping has a soul. You can feel the slight elevation of the paint and see the unique handwriting of the artist. While stickers can shrink or fade over time, a painted pinstripe ages with the vehicle and develops an authentic character that cannot be matched by mass-produced goods.
Do you have a question that was not answered here? Then feel free to