Air Brushing – Air Brush

Question:

Hi, Mike (from another Mike) Painting models with an airbrush is a lot of fun. Selecting an airbrush for the work will depend largely on your pocketbook, and what kind of paint you intend to use for the job. Remember that the brush is just part of the equation; you will also need an air source, like a compressor, air tank, or the spray-can sized pressure bottles. You will also need lots of cotton swabs, some airbrush cleaner, and other materials to keep the gun running. Most pros have several little cleaning reamers, twist brushes and the like. The airbrush has 2 basic models- single action and double action. A single action airbrush provides a fixed ratio of air and paint once it is adjusted, and a double action allows the user to vary the paint/air ratio at will by pushing down and/or rocking the trigger. Single action guns’ triggers only push down. As a general rule, single action guns are cheaper and sturdier than double actions, have fewer parts, and are easier to keep clean. Doulbe action guns are fussier, but provide a smoother graduation of color, smooth change of line widths as you spray, and easier control of the amount of paint you are spraying- it’s simple to spray very lightly or heavily with a double action gun. There are a lot of paints that are great for conventional brushwork that won’t work well in an airbrush. Most airbrushers use water based acrylic paints that are specifically designed for airbrush application these days, but there are many different types of paints that will work if properly reduced for spraying. A good way to get started looking for what you think you would like to have would be to do a search for airbrush supply companies. All of them offer varities of airbrushes, paints, compressors, etc., and will offer advice pertaining to your needs. Good luck, and hope you have a good time- once you’re hooked on air, nothing else will do it for you! Stanger

Response:

Hello, My name is Mike and Im looking for some help in selecting an airbrush.  I am just starting out and I intend to use it mainly for painting plastic models. If  you guys can offer me some guidance I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.

Response:

I would suggest, regardless of brand, that you get a double action airbrush. Since you are just starting out I will explain the difference. (If you already know, please don’t take offense.)  A single action airbrush is very basic. When the trigger is depressed the air and paint are both released at the same time. There is no varying the pressure of the air or the amount of the paint. It is basically a miniature spray can.  A double action airbrush is a bit more sophisticated.  The trigger is depressed to release the air, then pulled backwards to release paint. Using a double action airbrush makes it possible to control the amount of paint and the amount of air, resulting in varying sizes of spray patterns.  A Paasche VL offers the greatest range of versatility, due to the fact that it has three interchangeable heads. They are #’s 1, 3, and 5. A 1 is for fine spray, a 3 for medium and a 5 for heavy.  I have used a Paasche VL for 10 years and have always been pleased. Thayer and Chandler make excellent airbrushes also. Their Vega series are excellent. No matter what you choose, go to www.airbrushaction.com and check out the videos they offer for beginners. They are invaluable tools and well worth the money you will spend on them. Hope that I have helped you a bit and at least given you a starting point. Oh yea, the place with the absolute best prices and free shipping in Dixie Art Supply, www.dixieart.com Good Luck and have fun!!! Nikki – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, My name is Mike and Im looking for some help in selecting an airbrush.  I am just starting out and I intend to use it mainly for painting plastic models. If  you guys can offer me some guidance I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.

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