How to Airbrush a Bicycle Frame to Look Like Wood

Remove all parts of the bicycle you do not want to paint. This may include the crank, handlebars, bolts and brake cables.

Cover bolt holes and other areas you do not want painted on the bicycle frame with masking tape.

Clean the bicycle frame with a hand rag.

Apply paint-stripping foam to remove existing paint if necessary. You may skip this task if the paint is already chipping away. Paint-stripping foam is an effective way to remove paint from professionally finished bicycles.

Sand surface imperfections with medium-grade sandpaper. Smooth areas that were damaged from daily use. Chain stays and top tubes can be especially vulnerable to scratches and dents.

Hang the bicycle. That will help you to avoid missing spots.

Cover the entire frame with a primer using back and forth motions. Wear a face mask when you apply the primer and paint. Let the primer dry before continuing.

Apply a brown base coat on the frame with horizontal motions. Use your lightest shade of brown. Wood is uneven in color, and so you don't need to make the application uniform. Bicycle joints and delicate parts can be easily overlooked. Paint the base coat thoroughly, and let it dry.

Apply the next layer of brown paint in irregular shapes with quick light strokes using your middle shade of brown. This technique should add depth to the bottom layer. Keep in mind the overall look of wood, with circular and oblong shapes, helps to emphasize natural grain formations. Let the coat dry.

Apply thin details of wood grain with your darkest brown paint using the lighter oblong shapes as a guide. This can include knots and other irregularities found in different types of wood. Experiment with different shades of brown. Wood grain often varies by type. Let your newly painted bicycle frame dry.

Apply a clear, even finish of lacquer. It will preserve the paint.