Great comments, folks.

I agree that the downside to DIY painting is that it's not very durable. I'm in the process of dousing my frame in 20-25 coats of clear, so hopefully that will stand up after curing till the end of the week. Shouldn't be too bad.

The question is if anyhow has designed a "spray-on hardener," where one could paint the bike on their own time, to their own taste, and then have a powder coater spray a protective clear and bake it in their oven for minimal charge. Best of both worlds.

I will certainly add the comment about humidity. I'm going to keep adding to this post, including pictures, all tonight.

Is there any way to keep off rust, say if you want to paint the day after you sand? Keep the frame in the dry cellar?

I sanded last night and painted today. No problems at all. Then again, I don't live in a very humid area at all.