I don't see how you are going to take the top paint off without taking it all off. Maybe I'm wrong, but...

About a year ago popoki_nui posted some pics of her bikes. She paints her own frames and I was impressed. I asked her how she did it and she sent me these instructions.

Re paint: On my Gitane TdF, I used DuPont automotive paint made up and put in spray cans. (I saw that blue on a Dodge truck and loved it, so I had them make up that color for me ) Most auto/bodyshop supply stores can make up any color you wish in a spray can; it's the exact same paint bodyshops use, but in a spray can. Check your Yellow Pages for autobody supply shops. Then just go into the supply shop, browse thru the color sample book, choose the color you want, and get them to make you up TWO spray cans. This paint is more expensive, but you get a wider selection of colors, and better spray cans v.s. spray cans off the shelf.
On my black Bianchi and yellow Kuwahara I used Armor Coat spray cans I bought off the shelf at a hardware store. It is good paint at lower cost.
Tremclad anti-rust paint is good too, but comes in only a few basic colors
You will also need two spray cans of automotive scratch-filling, sandable primer. I prefer the gray color. And, you may need one spray can of clearcoat as well. So:
-two spray cans of primer,
-two spray cans of whichever type of colored paint you wish to use,
-one spray can of clearcoat if required.
No matter what paint you use, the key to a good looking finish is the prep work before painting!! If your frame is badly scratched/gouged/rusted, you should probably strip off all the old paint and start your project from bare metal. You should use that nasty paint-remover gel you get in hardware stores.
You will also need:
3-4 sheets each of:
#80 grit sandpaper
#150 grit sandpaper
#220 grit sandpaper
#400 grit wet-and-dry sandpaper (the black paper)
#600 grit wet-and-dry sandpaper (ditto)
-masking tape; the regular tan stuff and the green painter's tape.
-acetone
-a couple of those Scotch-Brite scrubbing pads.
-small tube of spot putty (sometimes called glazing putty) available at auto supply stores.
Also, a wire wheel/power drill combo will help with rust removal, but if you haven't got one the sandpaper will do.
Whew! That's what you will need to refinish your frame (plus a good place to do the work). I know it may sound daunting here, but it really isn't all that difficult!


My own project is going rather slow, but I'm down to bare metal and I had a terrific time going through the auto parts book. So many colors! Mine is going to be a sparkly mint green with a honey brooks saddle. I'l probably be in my 80s when I get finished and too old to enjoy it. Hope this gives you more ideas!