Airbrushing graphics?

[jhande]

I was contemplating airbrushing some graphics on the hull of my boat (see signature).
The hull seems to have a recent paint job which I would believe to be gel coat.
To airbrush the paint will have to be thinned to the viscosity of 1% milk, so pretty thin.
Wondering if I prep and use paint just like on auto's & motorcycles?
Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

 

[tphoyt]

Gelcoat can come with or with out wax in the formula. To play it safe I would wet sand the area with 600 paper first and wipe it down with acetone. Do your paint job and clear coat over it.
Best

 

[jhande]

Thank you for the reply.

 

[dingbat]

A lot easier to get a wrap made up and installed

 

[jhande]

I wasn't going for large graphics, plus no place local for that.

I'm not sure yet but was thinking of a jumping bass on the bow and a name on the stern.

 

[Keyboardman]

Digitally printed Vinyl is the way to go. I own a small sign shop and we've done quite a lot of custom boat graphics. They will last for years and are removable if you sell the boat later on down the rd. If there's no local sign shop around you may find some stock graphics online.

 

[southkogs]

^^^ I like the look of airbrushed graphics done well. I've even seen a lot of hand painted stuff that looks AMAZING.

But there's so much ready made available printed vinyl for what you're talking about, I'd give that serious consideration first. In addition to what keyboardman said, they're also relatively easy to install and keep clean.

 

[jhande]

Thank you guys!
I'll look into vinyl.

 

[Scott Danforth]

One-shot....

 

[jhande]

One-shot....

 

[Scott Danforth]

can always find an old sign painter and have them pinstripe it.

 

[jhande]

can always find an old sign painter and have them pinstripe it.

No need Scott. I have it covered myself.
Airbrushing and custom painting has been a hobby of mine since I was a kid. Just never on boats.