Instead of painting a rod blank, could you wrap the blank between guides with a solid color vinyl wrap?

You could, but it would add a lot of weight compared to a proper refinish job and would be doubtful to hold up very well over time. Of course that also depends on the type use and care it receives.

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The lightest thing to do, is to strip the finish from the blank and leave the blank in a polished unfinished finish state.

Be safe

I have found a rod I want to duplicate. I want to build a whole set like it. It has a painted blank. I am just scared to paint, I know nothing about it. I hate to put a lot of time and money into something and it not come out right.

A vinyl wrap does not sound like a good idea. If you are going to build a whole set of matching rods then buy painted blanks to start with. Rod Geeks will paint them in almost any color you want. The next viable alternative is to strip down the blank and paint it with the color you like. It is not that hard to do. There are a number of good spray paints out there that will do a good job. Do a search of this forum about painting rods, and you will learn a lot. The last issue of Rod Maker magazine had an article concerning the use of a two part spray urethane called Sray Max 2K that can be used as a clear topcoat. I have not used the stuff yet but it seems to be easy to use and the results look extremely good. Another option that you could try is to have an auto paint shop paint your blanks for you. I have not done this but some guys here have with good results. Hope this helps.
Norm

Thanks Norman, but Rod Geeks painted blanks aren't quite stout enough. I need some blanks in the 130# class. Thanks for the other info, I'll look into it

Did not know they were 130# class, going to be hard to find them with a custom paint job! I guess you paint them or have an auto paint shop do it for you. I have heard that auto bumper paint works well because it is extremely flexible. I have had good luck with krylon fusion and duplicolor auto paint clear top coated with permagloss Some others here may give you some tips on what to do. But I think a good spray paint topped off with the clear spray max 2K may be the way to go. I am not sure what an auto paint shop would charge, but you can check around.
Norm

Thanks again. There are a few body shops around. I'll probably ride by and see what they say. Maybe I can swap out a fishing trip or two

Good luck and let us know how it goes!
Norm

Will do!

Sand, primer, spray can of duplicolor, allow it to cure, then a quick coat of permagloss.

I get it David, but I'm trying to go with a specific color and it isn't in any spray can that would work. I appreciate all the feedback.

If you have a compressor and air brush this may help if you can find the color you want

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Bill - willierods.com