Put the screws and tiny parts from the bike in labeled plastic baggies so it’s easier to reassemble it later.
If you’re having trouble peeling a label off with your fingers, use a putty knife to lift the edges of the label up off the frame. [3] X Research source
Use wire brushes, low grit sandpaper, maybe between 80 to 120 grit sandpaper to prepare the surface. [6] X Research source You can also use a scraper. Generally, a 5-in-1 painter’s tool is very helpful. [7] X Research source
The posts for the brakes. Any bearing surfaces. Any threads on the bike where something will need to be screwed in when you reassemble it.
If you don’t have a table, you can mount the frame on a desk, stand, or other structure that will hold the bike off the ground.
Never combine different brands of spray paint. The different paints might react badly with each other. [14] X Research source If you want the bike frame to look matte instead of glossy, look for spray paint that says “matte finish” on the can.
Don’t worry if you still see some of the old paint showing through the first coat. You want to do several thin coats as opposed to one thick coat, so the old paint will be covered up after you apply more coats later on. [16] X Research source
For the best results, apply three coats of clear coat. Let each coat dry for 15-30 minutes before you apply the next one. Alternatively, you can use an oxidizing primer made specifically for the metal at the beginning. It will prevent the growth of rust in the future. [20] X Research source
