Did some searching found some good info, but I just wanted to hear any good or bad experiences people have had. I don't want to take it to a shop to have it powdered because the paint job I have in mind is multi colored and would cost a butt load. I don't mind the necessary prep work, and am good with a spray can, is this still a bad idea?

p.s. has anyone used montana brand paint on a frame?

....if you are just covering raw metal to prevent rust spray paint works but if your going for style its not worth it.

I just did a full rattlecan repaint of my frame and it came out well. Assuming you have some good info on painting I'll just offer a couple tips from what I learned painting mine. First, if the frame already has paint make sure you sand thoroughly w/ 200 grit. You don't need to remove the paint to the bare metal, but it does need to be evenly sanded over the entire frame to ensure a smooth, consistent finish. Also sand thoroughly in between coats (2 primer, 2-3 color, 2+ clear) with increasing grit sandpaper (finishing w/ 2000) and make sure you remove all of the paint dust before applying the next coat (wet-sanding will help with this). Finally, I used DupliColor auto touch up spraypaint, which should be available in a wide selection of colors at Wal-mart, etc. Whichever paint you choose, use the same brand of primer and clear to ensure chemical compatibility. If you have more specific questions ask here or PM me. Good luck!

https://www.bikeforums.net/singlespeed-fixed-gear/228880-agony-ecstacy.html

Try to find an auto spay paint supply store, they will custom mix or match colors in auto body paint and they will put them in a spray can for you. I had a frame I cut and filed all the braisings of, and was worried that I would have to spray the entire frame when I liked the color and decals... I took the fork to match off of, and the result was unbelievable.. they had matched it perfectly! the pearlecence and all, I only had to spot touch on all the bere metal.... it looked like a new frame. when i was spraying it on it was like I was erasing the visible metal, I was floored... they told me to use a hair dryer to cure/ bake the paint on. I used rustoleum on an earlier frame and it sucked, it just didn't go on good at all, and dosen't want to stay on.

I found the advice given by the folks in this Classic & Vintage thread extremely useful.

https://www.bikeforums.net/classic-vintage/222516-rattle-can-paint-job-any-good-experiences-tips.html