I painted my Beast 6 years ago, first time I ever painted a car.
also put Motion stripes on it.
I recently painted a 69 Motion Phase III GT , also with stripes, second car I ever painted.
With the base coat /clear coat system, if you have any runs, flaws in the base, fix and repaint.
With the clear coat, put at least 4 coat of the clear on, so if you have any runs / flaws, you have plenty of clear so you can wet sand it and not worry about hitting color.
It cost me about $1200 for good base and clear at whole sale price.
( place I got it from gave me great deal )
I did every thing on both my vettes because I don't have money and can not afford to have some one else do it.
Just be sure to invest in a GOOD gun, that is important.
Take your time, have someone be there to eye your work.
Hope this helps.
Joe
( stripes are not jagged, its the picture )