FWIW, my first choice would be between contrasting lugs, including BB shell and fork crown, with lugs lined in a third color if painted or contrasting head tube (with fork crown matching) and appropriate lining. Chrome only if original, but I prefer the interplay of color, particularly if it can be "accessorized" (to verb a noun from the fashion industry) with things like Bluemels celluloid mudguards in a compatible color. The more ornate the lugwork, the more likely I would opt for a contrasting color to set them off.
After this, I would consider things like boxlining or pinstriping if it fits the frame (like the Rotrax Peter Naiman linked us to yesterday). But I think it depends on the purpose of the bike. All this fancy dress-up seems inappropriate on a track bike, whereas it suits a touring bike or randonneur.
Also depends on the bike's lineage. I can easily visualize a number of British frames done up like I've described. But I can't really see Italian frames that elaborate. More than a little chrome (Cinelli SC or certain Colnago Supers) seems superfluous.
Of course, if we are talking a custom one-off from one of the talented listmembers here, the gloves are off. Well, to an extent. I'd prefer to stay away from pearlized finishes, metallics and modern horrors like the Art Decor-type approach. I don't think the former wear well on the eye over time. And the latter is, I hope, self-explanatory.
Just my 2ยข.
Phil Sieg Knoxville, Tennessee
Nick Zatezalo wrote:
>With all the chatter about lug lickin, I mean painting; when given the choice:
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>Would you opt for a single color scheme?
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>Would you opt for a two color scheme?
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>Would you opt for chrome?
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>Whatever else?
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>Make mine one color with chrome drop outs.{short point lugs please}
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>Nick Zatezalo
>Atlanta "home of the biggest fish tank in the world" Ga