It would be fair to say that I have a technical mind, and that generally means I’m artistically challenged. That is painfully evident in the fact that I have a tough time drawing stick men. Regardless of my lack of artistic skills, it doesn’t mean I don’t want to be able to do some basic artwork.

I have always been a big fan of the pinstripe, but I expect I would have the finesse of a chimpanzee when it comes to handling a sword brush. After all, pinstriping is an art in itself and takes a very talented and experienced hand to lay down a classy pinstripe.

Then I found this ingenious, yet simple device called the Beugler Pinstripe Tool that, while I wouldn’t say is fool proof, can make the job of pinstriping much easier for the artistically challenged. It is also technically really cool for such a simple design.

The Beugler Pinstripe Tool, invented in 1934, is a precision instrument that works, and with a little practice, you too could be laying down pinstripes. If I was able to do it, anyone can.

The tool is easy to use, simply pull the plunger, remove the end of the cylinder with the wheel and add paint. Replace the wheel end, push the plunger just until paint appears at the roller, and you are ready to pinstripe.

The tool flows paint evenly from the precision roller. The tool even allows you to stop and restart rolling and will also do tight corners with practice and a loose wrist. It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you pull the tool, it always lays down a consistent line. The Beugler Pinstripe Tool will even paint upside down because the plunger will always keep a supply of paint on the wheel. Leaning the tool on an angle allows the wheel to make a tapered line. The tool will use most paints of a creamy consistency and cleanup is a snap.

Now, I’m not going to tell you that you will be able to pinstripe your gas tank on your first try, but with some practice you should be able to lay down a bunch of decent pinstripes. Perhaps practice on your mailbox first, then the fridge and other household items until you have it perfected.

There are a number of kits available starting at $103.00 USD plus shipping from the Beugler website, www.beugler.com. The kits come with instructions, a variety of wheel heads in different widths (including double wheel heads) depending on the kit, cleaning brush and a selection of removable guide arms for following existing edges. The website has demonstrations to show just how easy this tool can be to use. MMM