[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

Originally Posted by [email protected]

I understand it costs at least $6,000 to get a quality paint job. So is that what most people do?

Basically yes, ...some do. Others tend to do it themselves. (-just an FYI, it is not uncommon for quality bodywork & paint work prices to be double or triple the figure you listed. Yes, people pay that. Read this article from several years ago; https://www.hemmings.com/stories/painting-costs/ )

It has been my observations over the years that guys who are top-level hobbyist Restorers generally spend money on buying quality tools to restore with. Those tools often include nice bodyworking tooling (power tools, jigs/fixtures, spray guns, portable booths & air filtration, etc.) and nice PPE to protect themselves. These level of hobbyists generally turn-out quality work simply because they pay attention to details and they don't cut corners. Only you know what your finances are and whether your skillset matches your expectations. Some Restorers look at each facet of the restoration as a challenge. They want to prove to themselves that they can successfully accomplish the task. Often times these people miss the mark on what their expectations are, so they do the same task over again until it is right. If that mindset describes you, I suggest you do the job yourself. It is very rewarding because it teaches so much on problem solving and brain-to-hand coordination. Those skills are easily adapted to other areas in your everyday life.


EDIT:
If the above article was eye-opening, then read this article too!! https://www.hemmings.com/stories/time-is-money/