Basic Airbrush Tips

An airbrush is a great tool for painting and decorating a range of projects – from cakes to models. However for the uninitiated then there are a lot of concepts that may be new to them. Some tips and hints to help you get started and produce great results safely include:

– Wear a facemask – if you are painting using model paints then it is best to use a face mask (or ideally invest in a spray booth however it may not be an investment you can afford or accommodate.) Overspray is a big issue when using these paints and the contents of the airbrush paints can harmful if inhaled and cause respiratory or nervous system damage.

– Research – when it comes to choosing an airbrush or a paint or any of the other components; it is a wise idea to do your research and see what options are available and what will give you the best results. In terms of an airbrush then an iwata, badger or paasche are some of the best available options due to their reliability, quality and the large volumes of information available online.

– Know the difference between single action and double action – single action airbrushes which when the trigger or button is depressed the air flow is turned on and a pre-set amount of fluid will be sprayed. The amount of fluid is controlled by turning, with the other hand, either a fluid tip or cone on external mix airbrushes, or a needle at the back of a handle on an internal mix airbrush. Dual Action Airbrushes on which the button or trigger controls both the air and the fluid. The trigger is pressed down for air and pulled back for fluid, the further you pull back on the trigger the more fluid is introduced. This type of action allows the user to change the width of line as well as the volume of paint and its coverage, all with one continuous finger movement.

– Cleaning your airbrush is vital – keeping your airbrush clean is an important part of the hobby. In order to get the best from your airbrush it is important to keep it clean, so that you can get great results and a good finish. Using airbrush cleaner will stop blockages and ensure everything works smoothly.

– Choose the right air source for you – if you think that you will be doing a lot of airbrushing, then it would be prudent to look into investing in a compressor, for those who airbrush less frequently then using an aerosol is an ideal way to maintain a steady air supply.

One of the benefits of the modern age is that airbrushing is a popular hobby that has plenty written about it online. If you are unsure of how to do something, then there are a whole host of useful tutorials online that can help you troubleshoot any problems, get tips and advice on what equipment to use. GraphicAir are experts when it comes to airbrushes, if there is anything that you are unsure of, then contact us today and we will do our best to help and advise.

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