How to Airbrush Helmets

Airbrushing can help your helmet stand out.

Airbrush painting a helmet is an easy way to add a touch of individuality for any sports or riding enthusiast. With just a few simple tools you can add any design you can imagine to make your helmet stand out. While the look of the finished product will depend on your skill with an airbrush, if you follow the proper procedures you can avoid making mistakes that may ruin the helmet.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• 600-grit sandpaper
• Masking tape
• Grease and wax remover
• Airbrush with air compressor
• Airbrush paint
• Protective mask and goggles
• Clear varnish

Instructions

1. Using your screwdriver, remove any pieces like vents or clear plastic visors.

2. Dip your 600-grit sandpaper in water and sand the surface of the helmet. This will give the paint an even surface to adhere to. Fill any chips or deep scratches with repair putty and sand it smooth.

3. Apply masking tape to all areas of the helmet that you don't want to paint. Cover any openings in the helmet with plastic so that paint doesn't get inside.

4. Clean the helmet with a grease and wax remover.

5. Use the airbrush to apply your design to the helmet. Apply the base colors first and then add detail over them. Remember to let each layer dry before adding the next. If your design calls for hard edges, use masking tape to cover the parts that you don't want painted.

6. Put on your mask and goggles. While all airbrushing should be done in a well ventilated area, it is important that clear-coating is always done in a well ventilated area.

7. Apply two or three coats of clear varnish to the helmet. It will take a few hours for the varnish to dry.

8. Reattach any pieces you had removed once the helmet is dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Always perform airbrushing in a ventilated area.

References

• How to airbrush: Helmet example
• Katewerk: Helmet airbrushing