Choosing the Right Paint Colors for Custom Classic Cars & Hot Rods

custom classic cars

When it comes to outfitting custom classic cars, one of the last steps and final touches is putting on that body paint. And yet, while being last to be done, the paint job is often the first thing to be noticed by others and as such can make or break the entire look and feel of the hot rod. A well-chosen color and design style can go a long way to enhance a custom car and make any vehicle stand out against the crowd, but how do you find that perfect combination for your project?

Here at Customs & Hot Rods of Andice, we take paint and design choices as seriously as we do metal work. The following is a quick look at a few of the things we'll go over with our clients to help them find that knockout color and design:

3 Things to Look at When Determining the Right Paint Job for Custom Classic Cars

  • Theme. Theme is the biggest single factor in determining the right paint color. For example, if we are working on a '60s era hot rod, then we will look at the bright colors of that era that pop. However, a more luxurious sedan of that same era would likely do better with a softer, richer paint color that pairs well with its more elegant style.
  • Color combinations. Want to do a two-tone paint scheme? Not a problem for many custom classic cars, however picking two paint colors can be twice as difficult as picking one knockout shade. If you want to stay safe and classy, then you can't go wrong with a traditional combination of primary colors combined with neutral shades. However, safety isn't always interesting and more and more hot rod and show car owners are mixing things up with two disparate colors or using shiny or strong colors like silver, copper, and orange with a more neutral color.
  • Personal tastes and attention wants. Nothing matters more than the personal tastes and attention concerns of the car's owner. Remember, the goal of choosing the right paint color and style is to draw attention to a vehicle. However, classic car and hot rod owners should consider what type of attention and from what type of other driver or car enthusiast. A bright and showy paint design with flames might certainly attract attention from passerbys but in the show world, unless they bring something new to the table, flames are a bit overdone. A good rule of thumb is to choose colors and design that compliment but don't overtake the overall style and look of your vehicle.

Having trouble finding the right shade and paint design for classic car or custom hot rod? Then come on down and visit our team at Customs & Hot Rods of Andice. Our professional painters Lance Nelson, Gary Massengill, and Brad Barker have decades of experience in the industry to ensure your vehicle has that perfect knockout color and design. Browse our project gallery to take a look.