so i'm wondering if there's a good way to feather around the originals so there's not that unsightly edge from taping them off. is it possible? anyone done that?
I did not remove the original decals on this old Torpado - "as found"...
..."as built"...
Rather than destroy the original art, I removed the paint right up to the decal. There was no need to feather paint or anything like that, Of course, there was no need for any paint since the entire frame was polished chrome. That said, I see no reason why one could not do the same thing with a painted bike.
I would remove all of the unwanted paint and use great care near decal edges. Then, I would use liquid latex to mask the decal (bottle with black top). This stuff is weird to use but works great...
Especially on intricate masking chores, such as the chrome lugs on this old German road bike...
As for no line left or even surface, this works reasonably well. The paint will meet the edge of the liquid mask, filling the seam. Then, assuming a product is safe to use over the decals, clear coat the entire frame. Why a clear that is safe to use? Some clears are
not compatible with the ink used to color decals and/or stickers. Bleeding can result of the ink can result and make the whole effort a
do it again thing.
Not sure if that is at all helpful but best of luck with the project.