how to copy stripes and/or graphics

[DougD]

I just purchased an older 4runner that I'd like add the original style graphics to.

They seems fairly straight forward and I'm pretty sure I can just mask off the area and replicate the stripes with paint rather than decals.

My question is; what's the best way to transfer the shape of the graphics onto the vehicle? (other than freehand). My brother has the same type vehicle with the graphics on it that I can use for an example.

I've seen folks trace something off on paper and then roll over the lines with a wheel that punches tiny holes in the lines so that it they can be pounced with a chaulk bag, etc....

Is there a way another way to make a transfer stencil or something similar?

Thanks.

[CraigS]

You can use a projector to project an image on the vehicle and mask the lines. This helps if you are trying to get an exact match on the other side of the vehicle.

[wolfsautobody]

The best that I've seen and probably the easiest is the paper like you said. That way you can mark where the door openings and handles and all are. Then if for some reason you mess up the side that does have the decals on then you will also have the paper to do that side. just flip it over and you are ready to do that side too.

[dcrog]

You can use a roll of masking paper on the car with the decal and position it in a manner that can be duplicated on the other vehicle. Then with a #2 pencil on its side just blacken it in and the edges will show up darker giving you something to run the pounce wheel along to make the holes for the chalk. This is a quite effective method and will cost a lot less than a projector which probably won't project an image the entire length of the car. You will also have a pattern for both sides with the one piece of masking. Just turn it over.

There have been many, many old school flames and graphics done this way.

Oh and don't run the wheel over the paper while it's on the other vehicle, you could damage the paint. A self healing cutting board works pretty well or even a piece of plywood.

Any art supply should have what you need.