Airbrush

There in front of you may be a white canvas, a model plane, or perhaps a car that needs some personality.  Whatever the project, airbrushing is a great way to get the effect you are looking for. Learning to airbrush begins like learning any new instrument, with practice and more practice.

An airbrush uses compressed air to spray a fine mist of paint or ink, similar to a spray can. Airbrushes are a desired tool because of its ability to blend colors smoothly and evenly. There are many different types and styles of airbrushes that will fit different projects.

Tips for beginners: get the right airbrush and paint to fit your project. Airbrush kits can be a great way to get started. Kits should include: a bottle, sprayer, air hose, airbrush paints, cleaner, and an air compressor.

For most painting jobs, your first airbrush should be of good quality, a single-action, external-mix unit with a compressor. This will ensure a smooth and continuous color. Single-action airbrushes are best for doing solid coats, straight lines, and stencil work. They also are the best learning tool. The external-mix unit blends the liquid paint with the compressed air stream outside the tip of the brush. Air compressors are essential when airbrushing and a high quality one can seem expensive, but it will make all the difference in the world when you finally get going. Also, be aware that some surfaces like plastic require special paint.  Make sure you take the time to prepare the surface with primer if needed.

Before you begin your project, make sure you are working in a well ventilated or open area with surrounding objects covered in case of over spray. Always use a paint mask and goggles, even if the airbrush paint is non-toxic. Make sure the area is well lit, the more light the better. This is helpful in seeing if the paint is wet enough and if it is coming out in a smooth and even tone. Once you are set up, it is a good idea to first practice, preferably on a similar surface to what you would be working on.

To practice, begin by drawing straight lines. Try to maintain a consistent width. Then, try to do the same only varying the lengths of the line. Proper technique varies for different paints, but a good rule of thumb is to spray 6 inches form the surface. Then, practice the design that you want doing curves and different shapes. Do not spray at an angle or with force, this may cause dripping or over spray.

When you feel ready to airbrush your project; prepare the surface and tape off any edges needed with artists’ tape or automotive-quality masking tape which won't leave any residue as regular masking tape might. To get an even finish, begin on one side and spray all the way across. Do no release the trigger. To do a second coat, begin on the same side and repeat.

If you are advanced, you may want to invest in a double action air brush, which allows you to control the paint volume and air volume with a lever. Depressing the air valve releases air only and the brush has a separate internal needle valve which controls the paint. This will take some practice, but allowing the paint to flow at your own pace will give you more control of the outcome.

Once you are done, be sure to clean and care for your equipment. To clean your equipment, fill the bottle with a solution of water and a drop of liquid dish soap then spray, which will clean the equipment from the inside out.

There are so many ways one can use an airbrush, be it for arts, crafts, ceramics, leather working, photo retouching, and even nail painting or body art. No matter what the project, the list is only limited by your imagination.




Colburn, Jeff. "Airbrush Basics." The Creative Cauldron. 2001. 13 Sept. 2006.

"Featured Complete Airbrush Kits." Air Brush Depot. TCPGolbal.com. 13 Sept. 2006.
 
Johnson, Don. "Air Brush Lesson 1." How to Airbrush. Airhead Airbrush.Com, Inc Web Sites. 13 Sept. 2006.

Ryan, Jim. "Buying and Using an Airbrush." 13 Sept. 2006.