How to Paint Flames on a Mustang

Adding flames to any car, especially a Ford Mustang, can make it much more appealing.

A Ford Mustang is practically the definition of an American muscle car. Many car enthusiasts seek out Mustangs to restore for racing, showing, or just because they always wanted one. Owners want their car to look their best, and some owners believe adding flame graphics to the exterior is one way to accomplish that. It is not an easy task, and takes skill if you try to do it yourself, but it can be done, and the car will look great when you finish.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pencil
• Car wash
• Sandpaper
• Pre-paint wash
• Tape
• Sheeting or masking paper
• Spray gun
• Airbrush

Instructions

Prepare to Paint

1. Draw a design for the flames you want on your Mustang, or hire an artist or experienced custom automotive painter draw one for you.

2. Using a product that will remove all the road dust, grime and grease, wash the car to make it as clean as possible.

3. Sand all car panels that will be painted with flames, and then re-wash these areas with a pre-paint cleaner.

4. Using fine line tape, begin to lay out your flames. The thinner the tape, the less chance for paint to leak through or outside the flame area. Inside the flames, use a wider tape to cover the area.

5. Use painter's tape and plastic sheeting, or any large paper, to cover the areas around the flames -- the upper portion of the car.

Paint the Flames

1. Begin with a primer so the car color will not show through the lightest color of your flames. A regular spray gun is the best tool to use for this process.

2. Start painting the flames, lightest color first, layering and designing as you desire, and finish with the darkest color. Use an airbrush for the flames, and move it constantly. Also, keep the airbrush around six to eight inches away from the car surface. This will help ensure an even paint job.

3. Remove the paper or sheeting, as well as any tape used, once the paint is dry. Wash the car again to rid any residue from these materials.

4. Spray a clear coat over the entire car when the body is dry. This protects all of your paint, and especially your flames, since they are newly-painted.

References

• Painting Flames
• Customs by Flash: Flames How-To
• Let's Paint Some Flames!