My vote is for hand-painted pinstriping over vinyl decals.

I think vinyl stripes are a lazy move in auto body work. Hand painting gives each line a unique feel that machines can't match. Just last week, I finished a truck with custom curves, and the client noticed the difference right away. Vinyl might seem simple, but it often cracks in cold weather or bubbles up. Taking time to learn brush control adds real value to your repairs. Why are we letting speed replace quality in our shops? What's your go-to method for detailing?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_sarah1mo ago

Seriously though, you're spot on. That handmade touch just makes a car feel special, like it has its own soul. I see so many vinyl jobs peeling on bumpers in the winter, looks awful. Takes real skill to lay down a clean line with a brush, and that's worth paying for. Too many people just want it fast and cheap now.

chen.casey1mo ago

See this cheap-out trend in everything now, @the_sarah.

noah9991mo ago

Saw my buddy's new car last week, the paint was already chipping on the door edge. He said the shop used some cheap wrap instead of a proper respray.