how many cans of duplicolor do I need?
 

how many cans of duplicolor will I need to paint my frame and fork?

I was thinking like one can of primer, two of paint and one of clear. is that accurate or will I need more?

I got away with one can of paint, but I didn't have high quaility in mind.

I was hoping to do a nice job, so one can won't do it. Any one else care to respond?

If you're already convinced it will take more than one can, whay are you asking?

More paint does not mean a better paint job. If the paint is too thick, you will have to scrape it off or sand it down to put on things like the front derailleur and the seat post clamp. If you're looking for a high quality paint job, don't count on it out of a rattle can. Premium quality paint does not come in rattle cans.

Having said that; yes you can do a decent looking if you are patient and get some practice in before you do the frame you want to look good. Pick up a junk frame for cheap off of Craigslist or something and practice. Pay attention to things like distance from nozzle to work - too close and you get runs, too far and you get lumpy/dry finish, keeping the the spray perpendicular to the work, only work in a clean and warm area. Prep is key. Clean with alcohol and don't touch it with bare hands before spraying. Mask off all threaded holes and fittings before spraying; it's much easier than cleaning the paint off later. Let it dry for a few days in a warm environment before assembling anything.

Practice paint aside, you should be able to get a couple good but thin coats out of a single spray can. If you don't, you're probably spraying it on too thick. Besides, you can always go buy another can. In the mean time, why buy what you don't need.

I used 1 primer, 2 paint, & 1 clear coat. I took my time and sanded between coats. I hate painting and will never do it again, but it turned out really good.

Actually the Duplicolor spraybombs are pretty decent quality paints. The advice so far sounds good, although I think 1 primer, 1 color, 1 clear will do. I did a filler panel (1988 between the front bumper and grille) on my old S-10 truck and it didn't fade, peel and the color matched perfectly. The truck set outdoors too and still the paint held up.

Go to an autobody paint supply store. They can put any color you want, even custom make a color, in a rattle can and also sell you the appropriate clear, if you want it. Metal flake, you name it, they can rattle can it. Not the same as a catalyzed paint, but definitely better quality then Dupe color.

2 coats of primer= 3 cans (duplicolor)

3 coats of paint = 4 cans (light color, you may do 2 if dark paint)

2 coats of clearcoat = 3 cans

Don't use all the can content, discard towards the end when no longer spits fine mist, if you want a fine job.