How to Paint Flames on Cars

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Fans of hot rods are familiar with the increasingly popular flame paint job. There are a number of different flame patterns to choose from, such as realistic flames, ghost flames and identical flames. Adding flames can be time-intensive, but you can use these steps to learn how to paint flames yourself.

Steps

1. 1
   Determine what color flame pattern you want. Check out popular car magazines to find a sample that you like.

   
   
2. 2
   Wash your car with a grease and wax remover. Ensure that the area where you will be painting the flames is spotless. Allow to dry before proceeding.
3. 3
   Sand the panels that will be painted with wet 600-grit sandpaper. It is important to ensure that the surface is completely smooth.
4. 4
   Clean the area with pre-paint cleaner.
5. 5
   Use fine line tape to map out the flame pattern. Though thicker tape may be used, thinner tape will result which could in fewer wrinkles, result in blurred lines.
6. 6
   Cover the flames and tape completely with transfer paper. Use a plastic- filler spreader to smooth out any wrinkles.
7. 7
   Cut down the center of the fine line tape all around the design with a utility knife. Be careful not to press too hard or the base paint may be scratched.
8. 8
   Cover the remainder of the car with plastic or masking paper. This will prevent any errant paint splatters.
9. 9
   Wipe with pre-paint cleaner to remove any errant fingerprints or resulting oil.
10. 10
    Spray with adhesion promoter.
11. 11
    Paint as desired. Let the paint dry as long as directed by the paint manufacturer.
12. 12
    Remove all tape and paper. Move slowly to prevent accidentally removing any paint.
13. 13
    Apply 1 to 2 coats of clear coat to protect your artwork.

Painting Identical Flames

1. 1
   Use fine line tape to map out the flame pattern.
2. 2
   Cover the taped side with masking paper.
3. 3
   Rub with a pencil. The pattern will appear on the masking paper.
4. 4
   Remove the masking paper.
5. 5
   Use a pounce wheel to go over the lines on the paper.
6. 6
   Flip the paper over. This will ensure a mirror image.
7. 7
   Place the paper on the side of the car that has not been taped.
8. 8
   Put blue construction chalk inside a sock or rag.
9. 9
   Pat around the lines with the chalk-filled rag or sock.
10. 10
    Remove the paper. The chalk lines will be evident on the car.
11. 11
    Use fine-line tape to mark the pattern.
12. 12
    Proceed as previously indicated.

    
    

Tips

• Use a combination of an airbrush, touch-up gun, and regular spray gun for the most professional look.
• Most supplies may be purchased at either an automotive supply or art store.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• 600- grit sandpaper
• 1/8" (3.17500 mm)fine line tape
• Transfer paper/ masking paper
• Pencil
• Adhesion promoter
• Pre-paint cleaner
• Plastic- filler spreader
• Airbrush or spray gun
• Clear coat
• Paint

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Paint Flames on Cars. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.