Airbrushing motorcycle tanks--Is it difficult to get a bodyshop to let you sell your services through them?

Question

I love motorcycles and am an artist. Do you know how difficult or easy it is to get started in the airbrush area?

Answer 1

Usually you would be a sub-contractor to a paint shop, if you're good, to many.
I would suggest you get some sheet metal, even some old tanks and fenders from a junk yard. Lay down some samples of some standard stuff ,flames, lightning bolts and the like. Also some of your own original stuff. Take them to some shops and give your pitch If they like your stuff you'll know.

Check out the airbrush work on the bike I built for the old lady. http://www.hotrodhotlinebikes.com
go to readers rides( Foxy Lady)

Answer 2

a good practice is to have at least 15 tank designs , done on steel sheet , or at least a few tank blanks ,http://www.innate.com/Services/Tank_Blanks.htm
no auto body shop anywhere will let you have the job without showing off their skills , would you risk hiring someone for a job and end up not having any skill what-so ever

also from experience , i have also found testing different paints and showing versatility is more important then an expert paint job , try out house of kolor , DuPont 3m , all the major brands .. its easier to adapt to what the shop has , then demand they get new stock , also , get in the habit when you do a job for an individual , DOCUMENT it photos and recipes (how you mixed a color inter coat or top coat) it will save time , and you will look more professional


and last but not least , remember , start small , less complicated designs , not everyone in the world wants their hog with truflames and skulls up the tailpipe (if ya know what i mean)

Answer 3

i wouldn't think it would be to hard to get your foot in the door. go to a few harley shops and just hang up a flyer..........you'll get hundreds of calls. buy a couple of old gas tanks to show your work off on!

Answer 4

If you are the best then you won't have a problem.