Split Grip Dress-Up

Is there an easy way to dress up the split grip area of rod? I have several custom made rods that all have different designs in the split grip area that I had the builder put on. The only one with nothing was my first one I ordered and did not know what I wanted. Now would like to dress that area up, if I can. Threads are candy apple red and silver. (Liked the red as have 100SHA Steez on it) I have no way to add any threading so trying to find out another way to do this by a total amateur....ME!
Also looking to possibly have a custom painter do the reel in some kind of red, black, silver trim and checking to see who might be best suited for this?

I am sure that any of the sponsors will be able to paint up your reel. Just have whomever you chose to airbrush the reel to also paint the section of the rod dressed up. It will be a perfect match for the reel then.

You could have some flame graphics on the reel and rod http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/glasses.gif or whatever you like

There is a ton of things you can do in the middle - some include:
airbrushing
thread wraps
abalone inlay
marbleing
snake skin

Contact for details on pricing and possibilities.

I have thought about the abalone inlay (cracked but heat gun might be needed for that) as should be able to do that myself if I can get the right clear finish to cover with to seal it to the rod better. The others would mean I have to send out and to just do 4-5" of the split grip area pretty expensive to pay for shipping both ways plus the work itself....thanks for the information.

Use the vinegar method. Simply works better. Heat gun will always create small cracks.