How to Airbrush Classic Flames
The term "classic flames" refers to a specific type of fire design. It is often found on old hot rod cars. It has a very simple look that strives less for realistic looking fire than for the general appearance of clean-cut, smooth, sharp licks of flames. This is a fairly easy process that can be done with minimal tools and time. Just make sure to get some practice with your airbrush beforehand to become familiar with the tricks of the trade.
Things You'll Need
- Tack rag
- Protective goggles
- Face mask
- Airbrush
- Airbrush paint (red, orange and yellow)
- Masking tape
- Sheets of paper or plastic (optional)
- Poster board
- Pencil
- Scissors or X-Acto knife
- Clear coat (optional)
Instructions
-
-
1
Familiarize yourself with your airbrush. Before attempting to paint your project, practice on scrap parts, such as cardboard or wood, first. To use the airbrush, simply hold it in your dominant hand, pour the paint into the reservoir (usually found on the top of the airbrush gun) and place your finger over the button that releases the air (also usually found on top of the gun). When ready to paint, place your other hand on your first hand to support it; hold the nozzle of the gun about 6 inches from the scrap canvas and press the button, spraying the paint onto the paper in clean, smooth, even strokes.
-
2
Draw out a classic flame design onto the poster board. This will be the template for your classic flames. Draw the flames actual size--that is, the size that you want the flames to end up on your project. If you feel the need to draw it in a smaller scale to start with, do so on graph paper. That way, when you're ready to transfer it to your poster-board template, you can simply upscale everything evenly.
-
-
3
Cut out the flames. These can be discarded, but make sure that the outside template--the paper that surrounded the flame design--is intact and uncut. The outside paper is what you will be using for this airbrushing project, not the flames themselves.
-
4
Wipe down your project surface with a tack rag. If the surface is metallic, plastic or fiberglas, wash the area with water first and then wipe it dry with a tack rag. Tack rags will eliminate any dirt or debris from the surface and will also not leave cloth fibers that many other rags leave behind.
-
5
Tape your template onto your project surface. If the surface is a car or motorcycle, make sure the tape is firmly secured and flat. Mask off any areas of your canvas you don't want paint accidentally touching. For instance, if you are working on a car, place plastic around and tape off all the windows, tires, chrome and mirrors.
-
6
Put on your protective goggles and face mask to ensure safety. Also be sure to airbrush in a well-ventilated area. (But this should not be done outside, where you would run the risk of dirt or debris striking and adhering to the paint).
-
7
Spray a layer of bright red airbrush paint onto the template's open area. Hold down the sides of the template as you spray around them, ensuring that you don't get unwanted paint under the paper template flaps. Cover the open area of your project surface with a clean-looking layer of paint. Allow it to dry before moving on.
-
8
Add yellow and orange highlights to your flame design as you see fit. Hold the nozzle farther back from the canvas for a softer, more blended look to your colors. Allow each layer to dry before starting another color.
-
9
Add a clear-coat varnish or sealer over the finished paint scheme. This will add a level of professionalism to your finished product. It will also add a glossy sheen, as well as seal the paint in place, protecting it from fading and scratches.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit SONY DSC image by Tim Osborn from Fotolia.com
