Understanding Airbrush Paint

You can use many different types of Airbrushes for different jobs. But what about the paint? There’s a range of different paints that you can use. But how do you know which one is right for you. We’re going to go through them.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paints are generally considered to be the easiest to use. They can be used on most surfaces including canvases and fabrics. Acrylic paints flow extremely well through the airbrush creating an even finish. They also have quick dry times so you don’t have to wait too long in between coats. If you thin the paint correctly then you can even create a transparent effect.

When acrylic paints dry they have a very strong look. The pigment in the acrylic paint is bound together with plastic. This increases the durability of the paint; they can even with stand water. However every paint has its breaking point and alcohol will certainly remove acrylic paint.

It’s important that before you use acrylic paint you shake it well before.

Inks and Dyes

Inks and dyes are extremely thin. It’s important that when you choose your surface that it is fine grained otherwise it will show through the paint. On a positive because they are so thin they work very well with Airbrushes. They even work well with Airbrushes with a low psi.

There is a limited amount of inks and dyes that you can buy ready to use. You will have to mix most of them yourself. This will allow you to customise your colours to your exact needs.

As well as the acrylic paint make sure you shake the bottle first.

Oils

Oil paints produce durable colours however they aren’t very easy to use with an airbrush. You have to thin the oil.

Oil has a very slow dry time. This means that you have to wait a lot longer in between coats as opposed to other types of paint.

Urethanes

This is the heavy duty stuff. This paint is designed for work on cars, motorcycles etc. they can withstand the elements.

Urethanes require good ventilation and caution when spraying. You need to minimise your exposure to the fumes.

Watercolours

Watercolours are great for airbrushing; because they are thin it provides a very even finish. The downside is that they aren’t as durable as other paints such as acrylic. Exposure to moisture can have big effect on the paint.

Because watercolours are thin they will come out transparent. This is why it is a good idea to use multiple coats until you find your ideal depth.

Watercolours dry very quickly and they are very easy to clean up.

For more information on Airbrush paint feel free to contact us here at Graphic Air.

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