How to Paint My Bike With No Compressor

If you do not have a compressor to use for painting a bicycle frame, don't fret. Enamel-based spray can paints are solid options for bicycle frame painting. These paints adhere to the frame surface and present a weather resistant, glossy paint choice suitable for bicycle frames. Prior to painting the frame, it needs to be prepped. Work in a well-ventilated area when using spray paints and keep a mask over your mouth.

Things You'll Need

  • Newspapers
  • Bicycle work stand
  • Cabinet scraper
  • Gritty sandpaper
  • Primer
  • Enamel spray paint
  • Can of clear coat
  • Sponge brushes
  • Painter's tape
  • Mask
  • Goggles
  • Gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Strip the bicycle down so only the seat stem remains on the bicycle. Tape the work stand with newspaper and painter's tape to prevent the stand from being painted with the bicycle frame. Place the seat stem and frame into the bike work stand.

    • 2

      Scrape the old paint off the bicycle frame. Begin with the cabinet scraper to remove large pieces of the paint and finish using the sandpaper.

    • 3

      Shake the can of primer and put on the mask and gloves. Spray an entire can of primer onto the bicycle frame. Give the primer time to dry as per the paint maker's instructions. Typically, the primer needs a full 24 hours to dry.

    • 4

      Shake the enamel spray paint cans and spray the bicycle frame with the colors you wish. Dab custom designs onto the bicycle using the sponge brushes, or use them to wipe away mistakes or drips. Let the first coat dry and return when dry to apply a second coat. Let the second coat dry.

    • 5

      Shake the can of clear-coat spray paint and apply a full coat to the bicycle frame to add luster and further protection to the paint job.