Airbrush appliances are small spray guns that are held like a pencil and use compressed air to apply colour to a surface. Airbrush spray guns are multi-faceted and fascinating to work with. Graphic designers, illustrators and model builders use them. They are used to paint walls, cars, ceramics, furniture, canvases, textiles or to decorate cakes. In the art world this technique is used for example in Pop Art, in photorealism or in science fiction art.
The airbrush technique can easily be combined with all other painting techniques. Sometimes it is much quicker and more precise than other painting techniques. The spray guns can be used with practically all colours. The most common are finely pigmented airbrush colours with an acrylic base. They are water-soluble, suitable for almost any surface, virtually odourless and non-toxic. These colours can be used to achieve wonderful colour gradations.
Airbrush appliances offer just as many creative opportunities as brushes.
The different nozzle sizes of the airbrush spray guns determine the fineness of the paint application. Depending upon the application a suitable model must be individually selected. The most versatile appliances are those with interchangeable nozzles and so-called double action function, i.e. you can control the paint and air quantity with one lever.
Be careful with solvent-based paints. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. Wear a dust mask and make sure the area or room is properly ventilated or is equipped with a paint mist extractor as the paint is distributed finely in the air.
Recommended Paper
Airbrush papers possess a smooth, homogenous surface. These papers have been sized twice. This is essential to prevent damage when removing stencils and sticky tape. They also have to be stable with different airbrush colours.
Ideally: Hahnemühle Airbrush Paper (contains rag).
