How to use an airbrush with a compressor for modeling correctly?

An airbrush for modeling is used to work with crafts and their components. Usually these are small parts, the painting of which should be carried out especially carefully, taking into account chiaroscuro and the creation of different shades. The model is first prepared, after which paint is applied in layers. A step-by-step description of the process and practical tips can be found in this article.

Model preparation

Before you start using an airbrush with a compressor for modeling, you should prepare the object. The main procedures are:

1. Matting, that is, applying abrasive using sandpaper. Small particles remain on the surface and provide good adhesion to the paint.
2. Degreasing - for this, use a silicone-based cleaner, as well as a special thick cloth. After treatment, you can no longer touch it with your hands, so as not to introduce other contaminants.
3. Priming - apply 1 or several layers. This procedure should be started only when the entire surface of the part becomes matte.

How to paint a model

An airbrush for models is used in much the same way as for painting other objects:

1. Place your hand at a distance of 15-20 cm from the surface to be painted.
2. Make smooth swings and press the trigger.
3. Press the air valve and press the lever until the paint comes out.

Just don’t press the trigger and move your hand, because in this case the paint will fall down and form lumps and air bubbles. Therefore, it is better to apply the base layer without haste. And after it dries, apply a new layer.

While working, you need to immediately think about light and shade and the distribution of shades. You need to immediately think about where the light is coming from. If a shadow is planned somewhere, the tone should be darker.

Individual areas are painted in different colors. Therefore, they must first be covered with masking tape or vinyl.

Practical tips for using an airbrush

Airbrush painting of models is in many ways a creative process, but it also requires accuracy and knowledge of the characteristics of paints. To make the part look beautiful, it is recommended to consider a few tips:

1. Use mainly acrylic paints. They do not burn through films and are not dangerous for children.
2. Do not mix paints with different properties, for example, particles of different sizes. It is highly not recommended to use compositions based on a mixture of enamel and acrylic paints.
3. If you are painting a complex model, for example a tank, you should examine it and think about how to reach each part with the device, and also plan the sequence of actions. It is better to remove small parts and paint them separately, and then install them on the model.
4. Since any composition gradually stagnates, the paint must be thoroughly mixed immediately before work. If the consistency is too thick, add a little solvent.
5. Before work, always carry out a test staining on the surface of plastic or paper.If the device spits, the layer is uneven, resembles crumbled semolina, it is necessary to adjust the pressure, clean the nozzle, dilute or replace the paint.

The use of an airbrush for modeling has its own characteristics. The part should turn out neat and beautiful, often with different shades. Therefore, it must be carefully prepared and then carefully applied under optimal pressure. To do this, do a test staining, after which the main work begins.