Lockdown Bike
Date
2020
Client
Personal
Scope of Work
Livery & Paint
CMF
Art Directsion
The Brief
Overview
During lockdown, I wanted to explore physical craft and surface design outside of digital tools, using the bike frame as a way to reconnect with hands‑on making.
The Challenge
Working from a one‑bed flat during lockdown meant limited space, ventilation and equipment. The challenge was to find a way to mask, paint and finish a full bike frame in a controlled, dust‑free environment without access to a workshop or outdoor space.
The Approach
I treated the frame as a 3D canvas, developing a geometric pattern system that wrapped cleanly around complex curves.
Visual Direction
Modern graphic styling designed to showcase custom paint technique. High-contrast geometric shapes wrap the frame tubing to modernise the bike’s silhouette without overwhelming the eye with unnecessary colour..
The Anatomy of the Project
A complete physical overhaul from raw metal to final coat. The execution focused on detailed surface sanding, accurate tape alignment for the graphics, and smooth, layered paint application.
Results
The Execution
Sanded and prepped the frame to create a smooth, paint‑ready surface
Developed a geometric pattern system that aligned across tubes and complex curves
Used masking and layering techniques to build clean, crisp edges
Tested colour combinations to balance contrast and flow across the frame
Applied multiple coats and clear‑coating to achieve a durable, polished finish
The Solution
A fully custom frame that demonstrates precision, patience and an interest in material‑led design. The project beacame a hands‑on counterpoint to digital work and strengthened my understanding of pattern application on 3D forms.
