Custom Hot Rod & Classic Builds in Elgin, IL

Where Restoration Meets Innovation

At Artie’s Restorations, we don’t just bring cars back to their original state — we bring your vision to life. Whether you want a street-ready hot rod, a custom-built restomod, or a personalized classic that breaks all the rules, our team has the tools and creativity to make it happen.

Our custom builds combine craftsmanship with performance. Every curve, part, and panel is tailored to your goals. Located in Elgin, IL, we serve car lovers across Illinois who want more than stock — they want standout.

What We Build

We offer fully custom classic car builds and hot rod projects, including:

• Restomods – Classic looks with modern drivability
• Pro-touring builds – Performance handling and upgraded interiors
• Traditional hot rods – Stripped-down, high-powered street machines
• Custom muscle cars – High-horsepower engines, suspension, and show-stopping paint
• One-of-one creations – Fully fabricated body panels, interiors, and engine setups

No matter the platform — from vintage Fords and Chevys to custom Mopars — we design, engineer, and finish to your exact specs.

Our Custom Build Process

Every custom build starts with your idea. Whether it’s a sketch, photo inspiration, or performance wishlist, we shape your vision into a fully functioning machine.

Our process includes:

1. Consultation & concept planning
2. Chassis and drivetrain design
3. Custom metal fabrication & body mods
4. Mechanical and performance system upgrades
5. Interior customization
6. Paint and finish work
7. Final tuning, detailing, and testing

You’ll receive regular updates, photos, and walkthroughs — keeping your project fully transparent from start to finish.

Fabrication & Metalwork

Custom hot rods often require more than bolt-on parts. We fabricate body panels, engine mounts, brackets, and trim to create seamless builds that look like they rolled off the factory line — only better.

We offer:

• Chop tops, shaved handles, and custom fenders
  
• Engine bay fabrication and firewall smoothing
  
• Custom exhaust routing and performance headers
  
• Floor pans, tubs, and roll cage integration
  
• Frame modification and strengthening

Precision welding and finish work are performed in-house for full quality control.

Powertrain & Performance Upgrades

We build vehicles that drive as well as they look. Our in-house mechanics install and tune performance systems to ensure reliability, handling, and pure horsepower.

Options include:

• LS, HEMI, Coyote, and crate motor installs
• Transmission upgrades (manual or auto)
• Custom cooling systems
• Modern suspension (coilovers, air ride, sway bars)
• Power brake conversions and four-wheel disc systems
• Modern steering and electronic systems

Want your classic to handle like a modern sports car? We’ll make it happen.

Custom Paint & Finish

Our sealed down-draft spray booth is where your build comes to life. From bold custom colors to multi-stage effects, we execute flawless paintwork built to show — and drive.

• House of Kolor, PPG, and custom blends available
• Pearlescent, candy, matte, and metallic finishes
• Pinstriping, ghost graphics, and race livery
• Under-hood paint and powder coating
• Buffed, polished, and protected for a deep shine

We treat your car like a canvas — with attention to every detail.

Interiors That Fit the Build

The interior is just as important as the engine bay. Our interior team designs cabins that blend comfort with style — period-correct or fully modern.

• Custom seat builds and reupholstery
• Fabrication of consoles, panels, and dash
• Gauges, lighting, and infotainment integration
• Vintage or racing harness setups
• Custom steering wheels and shifters

Everything is installed with precision, ensuring comfort, functionality, and flow.

Why Choose Artie’s for Your Custom Build

• One-Shop Build Process – All fabrication, paint, and performance work in-house
• Tailored to You – We build around your vision and driving goals
• Built to Drive – Reliability and road-readiness are always priorities
• Trusted Craftsmanship – No flash without function
• Experienced Team – With backgrounds in restoration, racing, and hot rod design

We’re not building kit cars — we’re building one-of-a-kind machines, made to last.