How to Airbrush a Dragon
The airbrushing technique originated around 1900 and mankind has been refining this art form ever since. Dragons stem totally from the imagination and their images are subject to a wide range of representation. Because airbrushing gives such a mystical quality to artwork, it is a perfect medium for dragon studies. Research and refine your dragon image, then grab your airbrush supplies and watch the dragon begin to take shape on your canvas.
Things You'll Need
- Pencil
- Paper
- Scrap heavy paper
- Canvas, pre-primed
- Airbrush
- Airbrush paints
Instructions
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1
Design a dragon on paper. Photos of reptiles help with details as they have many of the same features as dragons. Familiarity with the subject leads to confidence.
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2
Reproduce your chosen dragon image on the canvas. Use a light pencil line; this is only a guide for your color application.
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3
Follow the airbrush instructions and load the reservoir with paint. The paint should be a milky consistency; you will discover the correct consistency through trial and error.
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4
Make some practice lines and shapes on the heavy scrap paper to learn how the trigger and nozzle function. Make adjustments as necessary.
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5
Apply paint to the canvas when you feel confident.
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Change colors as necessary to create the dragon. Clean the nozzle thoroughly between colors to ensure rich pigments.
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Carefully clean all equipment when complete. It is best to start with water-based paints, which make the clean-up process easy.
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Tips & Warnings
The most inexpensive airbrush models may not have a good air source and may be hard to control. Go for a medium priced model ($150 as of 2010) or, if you really want to try airbrushing on a budget, use aerosol paint in spray cans.
A drop of water periodically placed of the tip of the nozzle will help to keep the paint from splattering.
Wear a mask when airbrushing to avoid inhaling pigments.
Aerosol paints are extremely flammable. Wear a mask when using these products.
