For etching motorcycle parts the process is much more involved than for other projects. The reason for this is that old finishes need to be removed, and a new base applied before I can begin the etching process.
Once pricing and artwork have been agreed on, you will need to ship your parts to me.
I prefer that you have your parts stripped of the existing finish before sending them to me. This way you know what condition they are in and there will be no surprises. A light coating of WD-40, or another similar product, will prevent rust while in transit.
Please! Make sure you wrap and pack your parts EXTRA well!! I cannot be responsible for damage incurred in shipment due to poor packageing. I also recommend purchasing insurance for your package. Without it, you cannot collect damage claims.
Please see the Shipping page for suggestions on wrapping your parts to prevent damage.
Once I recieve your parts, I will examine them, and take pictures of thier condition as recieved and send them to you. Any descrepancies in condition should be discussed immediately!
After the initial inspection, the pieces will be stripped of their current finish (if you have not had them stripped prior to shipping), then inspected again. Any flaws or problems will be photographed and the photos sent to you so we can discuss options.
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It is very important for you to understand that the metal pieces MUST be in good condition to be suitable for etching. This means absolutely NO body filler can be used in any area that will be etched.
This means: No Dents - No pinholes
If you are unsure of the condition of your parts, please have them checked somewhere locally first!
A quick way to determine condition - is the finish original?
If so, what condition are the parts in?
Any dents will need to be professionally repaired before I can work with them.
If the parts have been repainted, and you dont know what condition they were in prior to the repaint, it is possible there may be hidden damage. |
Any parts found to be unsuitable will be returned "AS IS".
Any payments made will be refunded, minus the setup fee.
Stripped parts are cleaned thoroughly and basecoated with automotive grade products and allowed to cure for 24 hours.
The design for each part is transferred to the corresponding part and the etching process is performed. This part of the process can vary in time form 1 day to several days, depending on how complex the design is, and how many parts are being worked on. Photos will be taken of each part as it is being worked on so you can see the progress of your parts.
Please note that once the etching is started only very minor changes can be made to the design!!
After the etching process is completed on a piece, it is again cleaned thoroughly and color is added to the etched areas if the design calls for it.
The color is allowed to cure for 24 hours, the piece is again cleaned and the first coat of automotive grade clear is applied.
The first coat of clear is allowed to cure for at least 12 hours. Successive clear coats are applied, allowed to cure and wetsanded until the finish is completely smooth, burying the etched areas so they cannot be felt when running your fingers over them.
This process can consist of from 6 to 10 coats of clear!
The final clear coat is polished and buffed to a beautiful, lusterous shine so all you notice is the incredible work of art beneath.
