How to Airbrush Airplanes
Airbrushing is a technique that uses a small air-operated tool known as an airbrush, which is often used to spray different types of ink, dyes or paint to some surface. An airbrush works with the help of compressed air that flows through the venturi (also known as an air ejector), performing a function of air suction, and allows paint to be pulled out from a small reservoir on top of the airbrush onto the surface through a spray nozzle.
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Instructions
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Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself. Put down plastic sheets so the paint does not damage the surface on which you are painting the airplane.
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Position the model where you want it.
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Switch the compressor on and set the spray pressure. The spray pressure should not be too high as you will spray it from a very little distance. If required position the needle and nozzle of the airbrush and attach the spray bottle on top.
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Mix the paint with thinner, following the paint maker's instructions for amounts. Mix different paints and thinner using plastic droppers. Make sure to use a different dropper for new paint. Mix the paints using a toothpick.
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Always test spray to make alterations to the airbrush or paint mix. You can use a similar model to test the color and chemical compatibility.
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Spray on the actual model. Always start and stop the spray off or away from the model. This will result in even coverage.
Hold the airbrush at an angle to the model (vertical is not practical), about 6 to 18 inches away. Move smoothly and at an easy pace.
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You'll have to have multiple coats on your model to ensure an even color and fairly uniform coverage. Give some time to the previous coat to dry and then spray the next coat. At least three to four coats will be needed.
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Clean up when changing colors, and when you're done for the day.
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Tips & Warnings
You can get an airbrush from an arts store.
You can get the hose from the hardware store.
The compressor acts as the needed air supply.
Use the airbrush in a well-ventilated room to reduce paint fumes.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Pixland/Getty Images
