How to Repaint an Old Bike Frame

Restoring an old bike is a fun project and gives you aor paint from flying back onto you. From about 2-3
great sense of accomplishment when you finish yourfeet away begin spraying your primer evenly onto
bicycle restore. The one step that should require theyour frame. Let it dry by following the drying time on
most time is the painting of your frame. Since therethe primer can. If the primer can recommend to sand
are a lot of steps involved and it cannot be completedthen follow the instructions, if not then do not sand. If
at time it requires a lot of patience.you do sand and go through the primer you should
The first step to re-painting your old bike frame isredo that portion.
stripping it from any old decals, paint, rust, or anythingNow that your frame is primered you can begin
else that has built up over the years. If your frame haspainting. You can find auto spray paint at your local
glue from decals or other substances that are notauto store. Be sure your frame is clean of dust and
coming off you may want to try a product called Gudirt. Use the same method and style painting as you
Gone. It removes glue and gunk with ease. Once youdid with the primer and do not over paint. If you over
remove all dirt, glue, and gunk from your frame youpaint or get too close you will begin form drips on your
need to begin sanding. I would recommend using 220frame and once they dry you will need to sand them
grit sand paper to keep from scratching your frameoff and re-paint. After your first layer you should do a
too much. You will need to remove all the paint but it islight sanding, after the drying period is over, and clean
OK to keep some of the old primer on the frame.your frame free from dust and dirt. You are ready for
When sanding, be sure to wear a mask to keep youyour second layer. Follow the same method as before.
from breathing in any of the paint dust. If you bike is oldIf you want, you can add a third layer but it is not
enough the paint may contain toxins.always necessary.
After your frame is stripped you will need to primer it.Once your paint is done you need to add a clear
You can buy auto primer from your local auto store.enamel coat. You can buy this at your local auto store
Take a rope, string or shoe lace and put it through theas well. Apply it using the same method as the paint
neck of your frame and use that to tie it to a tree orand primer. Follow the instructions on the can and once
fence. You will want to primer and paint outside or in ayou complete this step you are done.
well ventilated area. Make sure you are away fromYour bike will look brand new and you will have a
cars or houses and pain downwind to prevent primergreat feeling of accomplishment.