Between the Lines: Steve Chaszeyka - Variegated Gold Leaf Skull

Steve has been pinstriping for more than 50 years and has gained a worldwide reputation. A charter member of the PINSTRIPING HALL OF FAME, he has pioneered many new looks in pinstriping and has taught many newcomers to perfect their own style through both group and 1-2-1 classes as well as his popular Wizard Pinstriping DVD tutorials and signature brushes. The aim of this column is to inspire pinstripers of all levels in their use of colour and design.

Adding variegated gold to a panel adds the most impact and isn’t that hard to accomplish with a little imagination... This time we will be using a skull template and a little airbrush work to make this piece totally cool.

STEP 1

After cutting on plotter, make sure you are centered and on top of the panel so stripes can follow the flow. Remove the transfer tape and mix a litle hardner into your DUX size... probably about 20% or so.

STEP 2

Using a foam roller, roll on a small amount of size and make sure to cover the entire template. Be careful to apply it evenly and not too thick. Dry time is determined by temperature and humidity. A good practice is to apply it on another piece and test it for dry time by dragging your knuckle lightly across the surface until you feel the “tack”. It will cause your knuckle to “chatter” across the surface. Not sticky nor completely dry, but just about completely dry to the touch. Often the biggest mistake here is applying the leaf to wet size and it “drowns” the gold making it dull and non-reflective.

STEP 3

Carefully place the leaf on the entire surface and burnish with your palm. Press it into the size and rub off excess with a soft brush or clean cotton balls. Don’t rub it too hard!

STEP 4