My First Flame

[Vettra]

I want to thank all of you guys on the forum that helped me out with all of your experience and information on painting techniques. It helped in my confidence when painting my first helmet.

Attached is a link to an image of the helmet. http://ftintermedia.com/Flame.jpg There were a lot of firsts with this.
1. First time using media other than water based Createx.
2. First time atempting real fire. (Thanks Taz for hooking me up with the paint connection.)
3. First time mixing and spraying clear coat.

As we are our own worst critics I know the flame licks could be a lot smoother. I also have a bit of orange peel on the clear coat. I could buff it out but this is my old beater helmet.

I am glad I retired my old Paaches and went with the new Iwata Eclipse. I liken it to performing surgery with an ax before getting a scalpel.

Thanks again

 

[TAZ]

Not bad at all for your first job!

Bigger and better things to come for you!
Good luck!

 

[Vettra]

Would anyone be willing to give me an idea as to what they would charge a client for a custom paint job such as the one referenced in this thread?

Thanks

 

[Burnt]

I think your flame licks look just fine. Maybe alittle more bright highlights in the front where the fire is tha hottest would help but you've done real good for your first try. I would charge at least $250-$300. By the time you paint, color sand and buff you will have some time in it. Don't give your work away. You can always reduce your price but when your known for doing it cheap it's hard to raise your price. Besides, not all custom painters can do real flames that look as good as you have done.

 

[Vettra]

Thanks

Thank you very much for your critique. I really apreciate it. I also apreciate the insight as to pricing. It is important to know what the pricing structure is for any field of service as we never want to bring the pricing down for everyone else in the industry.

I own a video production studio where we produce TV commercials, music video and stadium graphics. In that field, there is always some yahoo with a camera and tripod that throws out a low ball price. The client may go for it but always ends up very discapointed,

Thanks again