Choosing the right Airbrush

Choosing an Airbrush can present you with a number of tricky decisions. To make sure you choose the right airbrush you need to first consider what you want to achieve. So let’s start right at the beginning.

Canvas

The item you are spraying will partially dictate what type of airbrush you need, as airbrushing is now widely used in many applications from customisation to make up, body art and fake tanning. Different canvasses require different paints as well as different levels of detail and coverage, which is explored in more detail here.

Coverage

Detail vs Coverage. First start by establishing the area you want to cover when spraying. If you want to spray large areas then a spray gun might be the best option. Spray guns allow you to spray large areas in very little time, as they can carry larger amounts of paint. Take a look at our spray gun range if this is what you require.

Beginners vs Advanced

Beginners

If you’re just starting out with an airbrush then you will need patience. There are a number of excellent entry level airbrushes, though the cheapest is not necessarily the best option as you may find it frustrating if blockages occur. As a beginner you will need to learn about paint consistency, cleaning and control. It may be best to learn all this with an entry level airbrush than a more expensive and complex airbrush. Build up your skills before moving onto the quality airbrushes.

We have a great range of entry level Airbrushes here at GraphicAir. If you still need help in deciding don’t hesitate to contact us.

Advanced

For those more practiced air-brushers follow this guide to help you find the perfect airbrush.

Single Action vs Dual Action vs Trigger Action

There are three different types of Airbrushes when it comes to mixing the air with the paint:

Single Action

With Single Action airbrushes there is a single switch to push down for air that will start the paint flowing and paint flow is adjustable.

Single Action airbrushes are good for people who use the same amount of fluid all the time. It is great for creating repeatable results.

Dual Action

Dual Action is the favoured choice for most air brushers. The Dual Action airbrush allows you to manipulate the spray, going from a wide spray to a fine spray in a single stroke. For a Single Action you would have to pause before changing the spray pattern.

Trigger Action

If you prefer the feel of a spray gun but the refinement of an airbrush, then this style of airbrush is your ideal partner.

Internal Mix vs External Mix

Internal Mix

With an Internal Mix Airbrush the fluid is mixed with the air at the tip of the head within the Airbrush. This means that the fluid is thoroughly atomised to microdot size. This is generally favoured as it can help when creating more detail.

External Mix

With an External mix the fluid and air is mixed outside the airbrush, when the air passes over the fluid tip. With this method you create a less atomised spray with a larger dot. You can’t create the same level of fine detail as an internal mix. An External mix also has a tendency to splatter.

Gravity Feed vs Side Feed vs Siphon Feed

Gravity Feed

A Gravity Feed Airbrush has a small fixed cup at the top of the Airbrush. This requires less pressure as Gravity draws the fluid to the fluid tip. The lower pressure allows you to paint at a slower pace. This is why Gravity Feed airbrushes are favoured by artists looking for detail.

Side Feed

A side feed is the most versatile of the three different types of Feeds. This involves having bottles or cups attached to the side of the airbrush. Without a cup on top of the airbrush, visibility is easier. This is also favoured for fine detail. However with this method you will have to buy a number of different accessories to fit the airbrush.

Siphon Feed

The Siphon Feed or Suction Feed attaches a bottle to the bottom of the airbrush. These are useful when a large amount of paint is required. The Suction Feed has larger bottles available than the Side Feed method. It’s not as easy to navigate as the other two feeds which makes it harder for fine detail.

Here at Graphic Air we have an extensive range of different types of Airbrushes. We will be able to cater for your needs. View all of our Airbrushes here. If you still aren’t sure please Contact us.

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