Secrets of working with the airbrush.

Airbrushing as an independent art direction appeared in the second half of the twentieth century. This direction is more focused on automotive topics and waterborne paints are the most popular ones, although this is not a dogma and some masters prefer to use other compositions.

A few words about the instrument

Immediately it should be noted that this method of drawing a picture requires accuracy, knowledge of the fundamental principles of painting and an expensive, professional tool.

What is airbrush

Simply put, an airbrush is a kind of airbrush for airbrushing.. The general principle of their work is similar, but painting with an airbrush is performed in the same way as painting a brush onto a canvas.
Currently there are quite a few such tools on the market, they differ in several criteria, first of all, this is the price. Cheapest devices stand in the region of 20 - $ 30. But if you do not want to face the fact that your airbrush spits paint and they do not really make a clear picture, it is better to take a tool worth from $ 100.
Now on the market there are 2 main types of airbrushes. The first has a dependent supply of coloring composition, the second is more perfect and has an independent, adjustable ink supply.
The dependent system is similar to applying water-based paint using a conventional vacuum cleaner with a special nozzle. That is, the higher the air pressure, the more paint is sprayed to the surface.
In devices with independent supply, it is possible to regulate both the pressure of the air jet and the degree of supply of the composition to the nozzle. As a result, the artist can achieve almost any thickness of the jet.
For beginners, we take the first steps in this kind of art with confidence we recommend using airbrushes with an independent system, which have both an air valve and a valve for adjusting the supply of the coloring composition.

Compressor selection

The price of domestic units, adapted for airbrushing, starts from $ 200, import representatives want about $ 300 - $ 500. But do not worry, for the beginning artist there is always the option to buy a used compressor.

Selection of colors

As mentioned earlier, this art is most common in the automotive theme, but it is not limited to this. Increasingly, such patterns can be found on furniture, on walls, even on computers and mobile phones. For each base is selected its own type of composition.

Liquid acrylic

Acrylic paint for airbrushing is currently the most popular. Most of all, it is preferred by professionals who know about painting firsthand. For beginners, liquid acrylic can conceal certain surprises. (See also article.)
The color palette here is the widest, from translucent hues, to bright, stylized gold and luminous neon compositions. These paints have a good level of hiding, which greatly facilitates the work of the artist, eliminating him from applying a multi-layer coating.
They have unique indicators of adhesion, plus they have a significant time margin during solidification, which allows you to create special effects such as wet sprays or drips.
After drying, liquid acrylic forms a hard, but elastic surface made of a thin layer of plastic, which can only be washed off with the help of special chemicals. This feature of it is very convenient when applying a new layer, the artist can improve the picture without fear of dissolving the lower layer.
It is an acrylic paint for airbrushing with your own hands that is prepared most easily, the instruction is simple, it is enough to mix the composition, bringing the desired consistency with pure distilled water. But acrylic paint for airbrushing poses a certain danger, if you incorrectly adjust the diameter of the nozzle or do not wash the tool in time, the airbrush will “spit”.
The big plus is that these compounds have a water-dispersion basis and are absolutely non-toxic. Because of this, they can work both outdoors and in a residential area without using protective equipment or additional ventilation.
Liquid acrylic, at this time, is the most optimal composition for applied, professional airbrushing. They can paint on almost any surface, the main thing after finishing work is to cover the image with a special varnish. (See also article.)

Tip: in the selection of paints do not absolutely trust the seller-consultant.
Each package indicates the recommended nozzle diameter, the minimum and maximum.
If we ignore this information, then no filtering of the paint will help, the tool will become blocked or it will not work properly.

Nitrocolors and Nitroenamels

In automotive topics, these compounds are almost the main competitors of liquid acrylic. These are the usual automobile enamels divorced with organic solvent.
These paints have their advantages.
1. Compared with acrylic, they dry much faster.
2. With their help it is much easier to draw thin graceful lines.
3. They provide a unique opportunity to create beautiful translucent fills.
But the merits end there, but the minuses are much more.
1. Hiding and brightness of tones here are much lower.
2. With nitrokraski not work to create a beautiful background, imposing 2 colors. In any case, a grayish tint will appear, which can be dealt with only by applying a light substrate.
3. Not every airbrush is suitable for working with nitro painting. Instructions on the package should contain information about the recommended type of tool.
4. These compositions are reversible, which can lead to the dissolution of the lower layer when applying a new one.
5. For professional artists, nitro-enamels are the main surprise, the laws of color mixing work differently here than in artistic paints.
6. And the most unpleasant, it is recommended to work with nitro compositions in special boxes, with good ventilation, plus in proper equipment. Because nitro compounds are toxic.

Work with watercolor

Watercolor paints are also known to be diluted with water. Therefore, working with them is quite easy, although watercolor is only suitable for applying on paper or some types of decorative plaster. Watercolor do not work on metal.
But for beginners masters airbrushing, watercolor is the best option. Here they will be able to master the application technique well and acquire the skill of mixing different colors. Plus, these paints are completely harmless and easily washable.

Important: to work with diluted watercolor compositions, you can use an airbrush with a nozzle opening diameter of not more than 0.3 mm.

The video in this article describes varieties of colors.

Conclusion

As you can see, the most important thing in mastering the skills of airbrushing is a great desire and availability of a quality tool. And the options for applying and types of paints, there are many available for both professionals and amateurs.

The ability to draw, create drawings, is not given to everyone. But if you can draw with pencils, brushes, chalk, or a mouse on a computer, the airbrush easily obeys your desire to work with it. This attractive nickel-plated tool allows you to paint on fabric, on walls, on metal surfaces. entered our life with tools, paints intended for her, picturesque paintings in the interior of the house, on motor vehicles, on fabrics.

To work with an airbrush need to be able to draw

What is an airbrush?

The name airbrush was formed by the merger of two words: aero - air and grafo - I write. I write by air. Drawing is done. The airbrush is built on the principle of a spray. a jet of paint in the shape of a torch, covering a certain area of coverage.

The diameter of the airbrush nozzle and the distance at which it is located from the surface to be painted also affect the width and shape of the line, the pressure in the compressor affects the intensity of paint supply. The airbrush creates bright, thin lines, and wider, but subtle shadows. All this must be considered when.

To airbrush from a miniature, elegant things turned into an effective tool for drawing, it is necessary with a hose to adjust the pressure within two atmospheres.

The principle of the airbrush is based on the principle of Bernoulli, the essence of which lies in the pressure difference in the airbrush tube and in the external environment. A vacuum is formed in the tube, raising the paint from the cup to the airbrush tube, mixing paint and air supplied by the compressor, and emitting it through the nozzle. It happens that the compressor works irregularly, intermittently, and then the paint is literally thrown out of the airbrush, as if the airbrush is spitting. Such a nuisance can ruin all the work. Therefore, you need to monitor the technical condition of the compressor, as well as timely clean the airbrush from the paint.

When choosing an airbrush carefully consider the material from which it is made

Structurally, airbrushes are distinguished by a knot of mixing paint and air streams and a mechanism that regulates their flow - a trigger.

In the single action airbrush, the trigger regulates the air flow. In this category, instruments are classified as external mixing and internal mixing. The first ones are the simplest design used for uniform dyeing or varnishing.
In a double action airbrush, the trigger simultaneously controls the flow of paint and air. This design of airbrushes is divided into airbrushes with a directly dependent supply of paint and air, with an independent supply.

Airbrushes differ in the location of the tank:

In the airbrush with gravity paint feed tank on top of the tool.
In a tool with siphon paint supply, the tool is located below the tool body.

Designers have developed airbrushes with a mixed paint supply scheme. Working with an airbrush is not difficult. It is necessary only to get used a little, to adapt to it. The tool, in the hand held as a pen, between the thumb and middle finger. The index finger lies on top of the trigger and controls it.

Paints

Paints are the main consumables for creating airbrushing. The following paints are used:

Nitrocellulose paint;
Artistic acrylic paints;

Airbrush pattern can be single-layered and multi-layered. Nitro-paints are not suitable for creating multi-layered patterns, because if you make a mistake on one of the upper levels, erasing it will cause you to touch the bottom layer. But at the same time - nitrocoloring when creating single-layer drawings are an excellent choice. In these paints by all means solvent is added, thanks to which the saturation, transparency of color is regulated. They dry very quickly, they are convenient to carry out drawings in the technique of pinstriping, because nitrocoloring allows you to create the finest lines and ornaments. The paints for nitrocellulose-based airbrushes are toxic, and it is recommended to work with them in a ventilated room and in the presence of a respirator.

Airbrush paints are often sold in sets.

Acrylic paint for airbrushing is made in sets of different colors and is not by chance called artistic. Artists are made in concentration, ready to work, they do not need to be diluted with either water or solvent. But if you yourself feel that the paint has thickened, the paint is diluted with alcohol or water. Acrylic paints for airborne water-based non-toxic, artists work with them without fear for their health.

Paint for airbrushing Exmix managed to get recognition from artists working in the technique of airbrushing. The manufacturers of this paint have achieved the finest grinding of pigments, which allows them to be used in airbrushes with the thinnest nozzle diameter.
Water based paints for airbrushing are diluted with clean filtered water. They are less toxic than nitro-paints, they dry easily and are used in multi-layer drawing.

Before filling the tank, the paint for the airbrush undergoes preliminary training. Paints are not always ready to work with this sophisticated tool, as stated on the packaging. From long-term storage, films form on the surface, the paint thickens. For creativity, it is necessary to dilute the paint for the airbrush to the consistency of milk. After dilution, it is necessary to filter the paint for the airbrush. These simple actions are necessary in order to prevent the ingress of large pigments, particles of dried paint into the spray nozzle.

Along with paints, other airbrushing materials will be required.

Dense film, a knife for creating stencils and patterns of the future pattern;
Film and tape to cover areas that can not be stained.
Marker for primary drawing.
Vodka for dissolving acrylic paints. (Do not drink, otherwise it will not be enough to dissolve the paint, and the hand will lose strength and confidence).

Airbrush pattern on the fabric

Airbrushing on the fabric is often used for interior decoration.

To begin with, we offer airbrushing on fabric. Why precisely fabric?

First, it is a relatively inexpensive material;
Secondly, you will have time to wash the bad picture before it grabs.
Thirdly, after completing the airbrush pattern, the ornament on the jacket or t-shirt, you will see how it will look, for example, on a car or a motorcycle, and on the other hand, in case of a successful application, you will get an accessory tied to your vehicle.

We take not a new jacket or a t-shirt as the source material. Note that knit fabrics have the ability to stretch. As a “subframe” we use a piece of fiberboard suitable for the size, on which we put on a t-shirt (jacket). You can fix the fabric with scotch tape, a needle with a thread or water-soluble glue, for example, PVA. Acrylic paints for fabrics are taken for drawing. There are some. Sketch apply with a marker, but carefully so that the fabric does not stretch. If you are not confident in your abilities, prepare a stencil.

Make a pattern for drawing pictures is easy. But this will require a transparent film, such from which the curtains are made for gazebos and open verandas. The drawing is transferred to a transparent film more easily. This material is durable, and a stencil cut from it will last a long time.

Interesting effects in airbrushing are obtained if you apply simple tricks:

Putting salt on the fabric, you can get the original granular coloring.
Expressive stains will appear on the cloth moistened with water.

Airbrushing pattern looks advantageous on a denim jacket. Even if you are using an old and out-of-date denim jacket for airbrushing, an airbrushing pattern will turn it into a “last squeak of fashion”.

Important. For drawing on clothes paint choose those that are polymerized under the action of high temperatures. It is enough to iron this drawing with an iron, and it will become indelible, it can be washed in warm water with ordinary laundry detergents.

Do not want to experiment on clothes, take an ordinary coarse calico, pull it on a stretcher and try to create a picture. If your work is successful, get an original addition to the interior or a gift for a friend.

Airbrushing on cars: should I do it myself?

Airbrushing looks favorably on all the basic colors of the body

Technology airbrushing on cars requires professionalism. And no matter what some articles say about airbrushing, it’s impossible to create a good airbrushing with your own hands, without a set of basic knowledge and skills to paint.

Of course, the wonderful drawings on motorcycles and cars are created not by the gods, but by people just like you and me. And the fact that someone can, and you can. If you really want. But it makes no sense to buy tools and paint for one picture, the creation of which remains in doubt. Better give your vehicle to professionals.

But if airbrushing has interested you, and you want to make it your profession or hobby, then the cards are in your hands. Get paint, tools, tutorials and create. Airbrush painting is really a very exciting and interesting activity. It is also profitable, because there are not so many good airbrush artists. You can teach a person to tighten the screws, paint or putty, drawing can not be taught, if he does not have this vocation, talent.

Why do you need drawing on the car?

Stupid question - you say, and probably you will be right. Unique airbrushing on cars is

First, beautiful, stylish, original;
Secondly, it makes the car unique and recognizable. Unless, of course, your drawing does not repeat the airbrushing done by your neighbor. In that case, everyone will start confusing cars;
A car with a pattern in combination with good tuning creates an image of a successful and wealthy person;
Thirdly, and this is the biggest plus, your car is not of particular interest to the hijackers.

Airbrushing can correct car body paint defects

Masking using airbrushing colors, or other defects in the painting, of course, possible. But this is not the best solution to the problem. Because in this situation, the theme and location of the picture will dictate not your desire and desire to show your individuality, but the location of the defect. And no one can give a guarantee that the airbrush pattern will mask the defect, but not select it, it will not underline it.

How to create a drawing on the car?

Here we will not go into the subtleties of painting cars, the site has written many articles about it. Suppose that to create a picture of the customer provided the car with a new and high quality paintwork. The wizard shows the sketches made on paper, or offers a portfolio of finished cars. The client chooses the sketch he likes, or offers his own. It is desirable for the master to know, and most importantly, how the car is coated with varnish, and depending on the paintwork chemistry, paint will be selected for airbrushing on the car.

Before work, the area of the paintwork surface of the body, reserved for the image, is trimmed with P2500 sandpaper to create a light roughness. Roughness is needed for adhesion of paints. With the same purpose, degreasing is performed. The surface is first wiped with a sticky cloth to remove dust and degreased. And the rest of the body, accessories, glass pasted over with self-adhesive film or masking tape to avoid paint.

If you are not an artist, entrust body airbrushing to a professional

The sketch is transferred to the car with a marker or pencil. If there are repetitive patterns or to create symmetrical patterns, stencils are used. With a free hand (without stencils and templates) only confident professionals work. Completed drawing lacquer for fixing paints and gloss.

How to choose a theme for a picture

Two directions of images are recognized in automotive aerography.

Commercial (corporate logos, advertising products and brands);
Nonprofit.

In the non-profit direction there are also topics:

naturalistic (forest, mountains, sea, etc.), animalistic and floristic themes;
Mythology
man-made (image of the engine on the hood, wings with rivets, metal structures);
Military (camouflage paint, the image of weapons, episodes of hostilities);
Erotica
Ornaments, abstraction, surrealism.

The chosen theme to some extent is a mirror of your soul, your mood. And according to the drawing on the car, one can characterize its owner or owner.

VIEW VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

Do you already have an idea how to airbrush the body of your car?

Today the market offers a wide range of colors. Among them are dry, acrylic, synthetic. Many of them are suitable for airbrushing - devices with which you can draw on the car drawing of any complexity.

Paints for airbrushing must be strictly suitable for cars that will be painted - because its operating conditions imply a high resistance to burnout, washing, and the effects of other environmental factors that have a negative impact (temperature changes, contact with tree branches).

Types of paint for airbrushing cars

Types and types of materials

Despite the fact that many fans of airbrushing use water-based paints (such as, for example, acrylic), experts believe that they are not always suitable for the application of drawings. In addition to acrylic, today these types of paints are often used:

urethane;
polyester;
on a synthetic basis.

Airbrushing involves the use of two types of paints for painting auto surfaces:

base (basecoat). Characterized by opacity, are opaque. Such models are used to apply a basic shade. Do not change color even when multi-layered;
artistic (candy). They are transparent, therefore they are used for artwork. The more layers of material you apply, the more intense and dark the shade will become.

Application of artistic airbrushing on the car

When using, remember that acrylic or synthetic paint is initially quite thick, and it must be diluted to the consistency of milk in order to ensure its quick and proper spraying. If you do not do this, you risk clogging the airbrush nozzle with a substance and hindering your work. Models presented in auto shops may differ in cost, durability and other parameters.

Remember that working with coloring substances requires compliance with safety measures. Indoors, it is necessary to ensure high-quality functioning of the ventilation system, as well as wear a respirator.

As a rule, today for painting cars using airbrush use:

nitro paints;
water-based automotive enamels;
art paints.

Auto enamels

Motip acrylic enamel: different types of packaging

Dilute such substances with water - filtered or the one that comes with acrylic products. It is the least toxic, which is important when staining. It also dries quickly, which makes it possible to quickly apply several layers of paint and varnish products and save your time.

Disadvantages of the method of staining with such substances are also available. For example, experts note the indexing of colors, which may prevent you from getting the desired shade when mixed.

Nitrocrash

These varieties of coloring substances must be diluted with solvents and after application form a particular surface on the car. Among the advantages of staining with such products are:

quick drying due to fine grinding;
the possibility of drawing on the car the smallest details of the picture;
prevention of smearing layers due to the consistency and rapid drying of products.

Nitro paints for car airbrushing

Among the drawbacks of paint can be identified:

indexing of the material, which often causes the final color to differ from the desired one;
poor color reproduction;
additional purchase of white background to increase saturation;
the inability to wash off only the upper layer;
high toxicity.

Art products

If you need products for dyeing a machine that does not require prior dilution and is easy to work with, you need artistic colors. It is convenient to work with them using rollers or brushes.

Drawing an airbrush

Among the main advantages of the products are:

wide color palette (almost all basic colors and many additional shades are available);
high level covering ability;
excellent color reproduction;
resistance to fading;
the possibility of overlapping a layer with another dye without mixing shades;
low toxicity;
good adhesion (contact with the surface);
easy washing off by solvent;
slow drying At this time, you can create the effect of divorce or other special effects.

Cons when working with such material are also observed. First of all, they include long drying - this makes it impossible to apply the substance from the airbrush to one place several times. Also, the substance has a thick consistency, which is a barrier to the creation of small drawings and details. Sometimes special effects on the body can not be created due to high adhesion.

Top models

Among the most well-known and high-quality dyes for airbrushing, represented on the domestic market, experts distinguish:

House of Kolor. The materials of this brand are of high quality and wide range. They offer both basic and transparent substances, chameleons, as well as primers and a variety of materials that can be needed by the auto repair and painting master;
It has a high price, but its quality is beyond doubt;

House of Kolor paint

Series Hecker. The company offers a wide range of products to create drawings of any complexity;
The company manufactures products for cars, so its paint is most suitable for creating realistic drawings on cars.

A good way out would be to buy several paints of various brands and apply them on cars. You should not buy the whole assortment of one company - poorly selected products may upset you with low quality and high costs.

Today in our country for airbrushing on cars, as a rule, use these types of paints:

Waterborne enamels;
Special art paints.

It is worth remembering that with any type of paint you need to work in a respirator and in a room where the exhaust system works well.

Water based enamels

Water paints for airbrushing which can be bought in specialized stores, are diluted with water. As a rule, it is recommended to use filtered water, but some manufacturers offer branded water. The advantages of this type of paint is low toxicity, which is important for working indoors, especially if there is no ventilation system.

Aqueous paints for airbrushing on cars very quickly dry and allow you to apply different colors in several layers. Experts also identify some of the drawbacks of such paints, which consist mainly in the indexing of colors, which does not allow to obtain the expected color when mixed.

Nitro-paints have a special surface that you will see after application. These materials are diluted to the desired consistency with the help of special solvents, which, as a rule, can be found in the corresponding product line of a certain manufacturer. Such paints for airbrushing have a number of advantages:

They instantly dry up due to very fine grinding;
Due to the special structure of nitrocolors, it is possible to draw various small patterns and drawings;
Nitrokraski very quickly dry, so you can not worry about the application of several layers: they are guaranteed not smear!

But, like any other paints for airbrushing, which can be bought in specialized stores, nitro-paints have a number of shortcomings, which should also be taken into account when selecting materials.

Mixing paint, you need to remember that the final color may differ significantly from what you expect to see. This is due to the indexation of paint;
Skilled craftsmen also talk about the poor color rendition of such paints;
The need to use an additional basic white background so that the final color is bright and saturated;
The thin color that overlaps its “predecessor”, as a rule, becomes faded grayish;
Easy process of dissolving paint after application;
It is impossible to wash off the upper layer without damaging deeper balls;
Strict requirements for work: a ban on working indoors, a respirator is required due to the high toxicity of paints.

Art paints for airbrushing are designed specifically for painting on cars, and, as a rule, are sold ready to use. You can work with such paints with the help of various tools, including brushes and rollers. The obvious advantages of this type of paint are:

Expanded color palette, in which there is a large number of basic colors, as well as colors with a variety of color effects, such as glowing, metallic sheen, etc.

High covering ability;
Resistant to light and good color reproduction;
The ability to easily and seamlessly overlap one layer to another without any changes in the structure and color of different balls;
Increased adhesion level;
Low toxicity, water dilution;
Irreversibility, that is, the paint can not be washed off, which is convenient during the application of several layers;
The possibility of washing the paint with a special solvent;

Slow drying, which is convenient for creating various special effects, such as blurring or streaks.

As for the drawbacks, the most noticeable drawbacks and side effects in working with such paints for airbrushing are slow drying, due to which the master will not be able to blow paint at one point several times. The consistency of these paints is much thicker compared to nitro-paints, so that small details and drawings are not the prerogative of artistic materials. Artistic paints for airbrushing on cars occasionally do not allow creating special special effects due to the high level of coupling with the surface.

A wide selection of paints for airbrushing gives everyone the opportunity to choose the best option both in price and quality. The problem is just what option to choose.

Like several years ago, acrylic paints are popular, however, given the difficulties in working with such materials, as well as their insufficient durability, more and more often craftsmen use airbrushing paints on cars based on some kind of solvent. The category of such paints include urethane, synthetic and polyester paints.

Paints for airbrushing which you can buy in almost any store, differ in durability, quality of the finished coating and of course cost. Despite what brand of paint you choose, you need to remember that the paint should be diluted to a “milky” consistency. Airbrushing requires a ductile lightweight material, and a thick substance can spoil the whole process: the nozzles of the spray gun will become blocked with paint and it will be impossible to work. Dilute the airbrush paint to the milk consistency by using a special solvent. Also, some companies sell paints that were originally diluted in the right proportions, which makes work much easier.

Each type of paint has its pros and cons, so choosing a paint should take into account the balance of advantages and disadvantages, as well as the expected result.

Stages of the work of creating airbrushing

Stages work airbrushing

Work in airbrushing takes place in several stages. Single-level painting is the most economical and not very labor-intensive process, so that the approach is usually the most popular. This approach is justified in cases where the entire surface needs to be simply painted in a single color by mixing special toners. For this method, there are paints that, in addition to obvious advantages, are very toxic and dry for a long time.

Two-level painting is a more complicated process in which cars are varnished on the surface of a car after the base coat has been applied. The lacquer gives the surface a shine and luxurious attractive appearance. With this approach, paints are usually diluted with solvents. Such paints are widely distributed in airbrushing due to the brightness and a wide variety of color palettes.

Three-level painting, which is also often called a multi-stage painting, is a particularly complex process in which the surface is covered with an additional layer of varnish with a certain shade, which is applied to the base coat. In this approach, particular difficulties, as a rule, arise at the stage of the correction of body defects.

When performing art, design, architectural works, painting cars, fabrics, porcelain, etc. there is a question about choosing a tool for high-quality application of liquid paints, dyes, varnishes. The most perfect and often simply indispensable tool for this kind of work is airbrush - miniature sprayer. With skillful appeal, the artist is able to perform the finest tonal and color transitions, apply high-quality varnish coatings, create unusual colorful effects and much more.

TYPES OF AEROGRAPHERS

Airbrush (Airbrush) -tool for applying liquid materials by pneumatic spraying. Any liquid diluted to a consistency of milk can be sprayed with an airbrush. However, if the fluid is too diluted, it may not fit properly, so the choice of fluid consistency is a very important detail. In addition, oil and gouache paints are not suitable for airbrush spraying. Another equally important detail is the type of airbrush. The advantage of an airbrush is that it can paint any surface - from a regular sheet of paper to an object that is complex in configuration - in both cases the paint will fall perfectly and smoothly. With the help of an airbrush, you can make unusually thin glazes and unusually smooth transitions. No other means you will not achieve such a quality, no matter how delicately you do not own them.

Every artist who decides to do airbrushing should have a good understanding of the principles of operation and the design of his instrument - after all, an airbrush requires careful maintenance. And the main thing in the care of the airbrush - constant flushing - when changing paint, at the end of the work, even if you just decided to take a break - you need to wash the airbrush, otherwise dried pieces of paint will clog it.

In general, airbrushes are divided into two types: single and double action.

Single action -this is the easiest and most affordable type of airbrush. When the pedal (air control) is pressed, the dye is sprayed with constant characteristics. Changing these characteristics is simple: you need to interrupt and slightly turn the paint supply valve. Single action airbrushes are useful for hobbies, crafts, painting through stencils, wall painting. Acrylic, ceramic and autoenamels are usually sprayed with single-action airbrushes.

Double action -that is, you can simultaneously control the flow of air and paint. If the dual action airbrush pedal is slowly moved backwards, the amount of paint sprayed will gradually increase. Thus, you can control the thickness of the lines and the color saturation during the application of paint.

More information on the classification and selection in the article. GUIDE FOR THE SELECTION OF AEROGRAPH.

Now in our store Peredvodnik manufacturers of aerographic technology are represented:

HARDER & STENBEECK - Germany.

AERO-PRO - the development of Russia, produced in Taiwan.Airbrushes with the trademark "Aero-Pro" are quality tools for both beginners and practicing users. When handled properly, these airbrushes are distinguished by their reliability and good spraying characteristics. In addition, these professional tools are relatively cheap.

No matter how simple an airbrush is, it requires attention and care on your part. Remember that this is a complex technical device, a set of mechanical parts and precise mechanisms. Ideally, the airbrush should be used by one person responsible for its serviceability and maintenance. Here are the basic rules for the use and maintenance of equipment, the procedure for maintaining and maintaining it in good working condition.

CHOICE OF PAINT FOR AEROGRAPH

Every seller, to whom a buyer comes for an airbrush and a compressor, has a logical question: “What paints, primers, thinners, varnishes, mediums should he advise?”

Today in Russia there is a very large selection of both domestic and imported airbrushing paints. All of them can be divided into two groups: water soluble (diluted with water) and diluted with solvents.

The first group should include well-known paints and materials: ink, gouache, ink, watercolor, tempera, different types of acrylic paints.There is also specialized acrylic paints AEROCOLOR from Schmincke.
The second group includes paints on nitro and polyurethane bases. Solvents for such paints are: white spirit, pinene, turpentine, etc.
Oil paints well divorced pinene . Ink, watercolor is best used for work on paper and cardboard, tempera - for canvas and wood. Acrylic paints are perfect for all surfaces, with the exception of auto and moto technology, for painting of which auto enamels are more suitable.
Autoenamels The most well-known brands of car enamels: "Shtandoks", "Dupont", "Shpetshekker", "Sikkens", "Glazurit". For each of these paints, “relatives” were created, or, as we say, “branded”, solvents, hardeners and varnishes. I note right away: with rare exceptions, almost any paint can be “driven” through an airbrush, of course, if it is properly diluted to the desired consistency. It is the desired paint consistency that allows high-quality and optimal spraying.

The most important thing is to decide on which basis the drawing will be applied: on paper , canvas , the cloth , plastic, metal, glass, etc. The most reasonable way to pick up paint, given the type of surface. Dilute the paint to the consistency of nonfat milk or even thinner. If it is too thick, spraying will occur with difficulty or airbrush nozzles will clog. Moreover, whatever the pressure exhibited, the result will be the same.

Many companies produce paints already diluted under the spray, but even they can be diluted even if there is such a need. If necessary, soils, varnishes, mediums are also bred.

The theme of colorful materials is too voluminous, and, unfortunately, in a nutshell it is impossible to tell about everything. Tip: never buy the entire line of colors from one manufacturer at once. It is better to take some color from one firm, some from another, test them and stop at what suits you best. And always remember that if the pure water or solvent “goes well” through the airbrush, and the paint does not, then the painting material was poorly prepared by you.

WORK BY AEROGRAPH

Airbrush use

Here are some basic rules for operating an airbrush. Hold the airbrush in your hand like a ballpoint pen: between the thumb and middle finger, pressing the trigger with the index finger. The airbrush body should rest comfortably in the hand like a writing instrument. Be careful and careful, the ability to properly hold the airbrush will allow you to easily and accurately manipulate the tool, achieving the desired effect in the work. Beginners often try to find their own, more convenient way of holding an airbrush, based on their habits. Do not do this if you want to achieve excellent results. At the beginning of the work, it is necessary to carry out a check: by pressing the trigger, achieve that only the air flow comes from the airbrush. If traces of paint appear during this operation, insert the needle all the way into the nozzle. To spray paint at the same time pressing the trigger should be released it back. A convenient stand for the airbrush should be fixed on the desktop so as to prevent its damage or falling to the floor.

Airbrush Care

Improper care of the airbrush will make its effective use impossible. It can become unmanageable. The key point of maintenance is thorough care and cleaning, which will require time and attention. It is very important to clean the airbrush after each application, even for a short time. Even if it worked for only a few minutes, it needs to be cleaned. Otherwise there is a risk that it will become clogged, and this may damage it or even disable it. In addition, the paint in the tank must be the correct milk consistency; airbrush can not self-clean and get rid of the dried paint. Air pressure should never exceed the value recommended by the manufacturer. Lowering its level will not impair the spraying of the paint, but exceeding the pressure will not only lead to poor results, but may also damage the connections and the seal of the air valve.

Airbrush is always on the stand

Airbrush - a delicate tool that requires constant care. It is very important during operation to always put the airbrush on the stand, on which it is stored during off-hours, this will protect it from accidental drops, which can seriously damage the mechanisms of the device. The airbrush on the pedestal is always ready for use and protected from damage. If during work you need to put the airbrush at least for the shortest time, it must be placed on the stand.

Any airbrush is a high quality tool. Careful handling is essential for optimal spraying.

To achieve this, you can know the device airbrush and its components.

This knowledge is also needed for that. to be able to clean the airbrush or to perform simple repair and service work such as. eg. replacement needle or nozzle. Our advice to you: never start any repairs. if you are not sure. that you can do it yourself.

To solve some problems, use our list of helpful tips and solutions to some problems.

Control button

All Aero-pro airbrushes work on the principle of single and double action. which can be either “independent” or “controlled”.

In airbrushes with an independent double action, the air and paint flows are controlled by the following movements of the control button: button down - air supply, button back (on itself) - paint supply; accordingly, by pressing the button further down, the air supply will increase. and when you push the button towards yourself, the ink supply increases. Most of the effects typical of airbrushing are achieved by airbrushes with “dependent double action. The optimality of the process of obtaining an equilibrium mixture of air and paint can be achieved only by frequent practical exercises.

Faster learning of the airbrushing process occurs when airbrushes operate on the principle of controlled (or dependent) double action. To start the process, simply pull the control button back (towards yourself). this opens the air supply valve, and then the paint supply nozzle. This sequence of actions can not be changed - they are dependent on each other. That is why we call this principle of action “dependent double action”. It is much easier to work with such airbrushes and especially for beginners.

Air pressure

Normal working air movement is within 1-3 atm. The higher the pressure, the more subtle the spraying process will be. but at the same time more difficult to manage. Too little pressure will not provide high-quality spray paint. this will be seen in the rough results obtained. One more rule should be remembered: the thicker (viscous) paint you use, the higher the pressure should be. It is especially important to choose the right paint consistency if the pressure in your air source is not adjustable. If you have an adjustable compressor. Then try to change the pressure in the above range to obtain satisfactory results.

Paint preparation

Whatever paint you use. You should always choose its consistency suitable for your airbrush. We advise you to dilute the paint with water (or an appropriate thinner) to a “milky” consistency. For beginners, we can advise to dilute the paint to an even more liquid consistency and spray it with an airbrush several times to obtain the desired shade on the treated surface. Currently, there are a lot of special airbrush paints with the required consistency.

Note for newbies:start working with your airbrush using water-soluble paints (for example, watercolors), dried particles of which are easily removed after work.

Beginning of work

Remember the "golden" rule of airbrushing applied to airbrushes with independent double action: to begin - "air". finish - "air."

It is very important to first open the air valve by pressing the button down and then gently pull it towards you to supply paint. Never start a paint job. those. Do not pull back the control button. without drowning it down. Otherwise, the paint will collect at the needle tip and. when you apply air, the airbrush will make a blot on your work. That is why always press the button first and then pull it towards you. When you finish the spraying process, first release the button forward. and then up to the starting position.

When working with airbrushes "dependent" double action, you can not think about this "golden" rule. To start the spraying process, simply pull the control button towards you, and the further you pull the button, the stronger the flow of paint.

First exercise

In order to feel the work of the airbrush control button, just try the spraying process. Pour a few drops of paint into the airbrush (less is better than too much). The air hose can be wrapped around the wrist. so that it does not interfere with the work. Place your index finger on the control button. Keep the airbrush at a distance of 7-8 cm from the paper and just try the spraying process in order. to feel how the airbrush works.

See how the results will change as the distance from the airbrush to the treated surface changes. The closer you bring the airbrush, the thinner and richer the airbrush line will be; the farther - the wider and brighter the line will be. Try to use as much as possible liquid paint. cover the surface several times to get the desired color depth.

Sprinkler effect

An attractive sprinkler (raindrop effect) when working with your airbrush can be obtained by unscrewing the cap. which covers the tip of the needle. Try changing pressure if your compressor allows it. and paint for various sprinkler effects. Work carefully, so as not to damage the open needle tip.

CLEANING OF AEROGRAPH

Most of the problems that can arise when using an airbrush. are the result of improper cleansing. An unsatisfactory spraying process or a clogged nozzle is the usual result of improper and irregular cleaning. Your airbrush must be rinsed with water before each change of paint color, and when using special paints, with appropriate cleaning solutions or solvents. Leave paint in the airbrush tank only for a short time.

When using paints containing pigments (for example, acrylic), their residues are quickly collected on the needle and the inner walls of the cap protecting the needle. Therefore, the needle and safety cap should be flushed frequently; the frequency of washes depends on the type of paint used.

Cleaning should be done as follows:

Blow airbrush away paint residue. Release the collet clamp of the needle and carefully pull out the needle. Carefully wipe the needle towards the tip. turning it while rubbing.
Pour some water or cleaning solution into the airbrush tank.
Use a cotton swab to clean the airbrush paint.
Blow airbrush with cleaning solution.
Unscrew the safety cap and wipe it from the inside with a swab. moistened with water or cleaning solution.
Screw the cap on.
Gently, gently push the needle in and secure with a collet clamp.
At the end, flush the airbrush again with a cleaning solution.

CARE FOR AIRGRAPH COMPRESSOR

All manufacturers of airbrush compressors enclose an operation and maintenance manual for them. It is very important to regularly check the oil level, because if you do not follow this, the compressor may jam, which will require expensive repairs.

The lower oil level is marked on the compressor side and corresponds to the volume of the filler cup. The oil level in the compressor should always be above the bottom mark, and once a year the oil changes completely. It is also very important to use exactly the type of oil that is recommended by the manufacturer. Different types of compressors need different types of oils. Mixing incompatible types of oils can cause serious damage.

The humid filter should be dried regularly; compressors with an additional chamber or receiver should be removed from the condensate through the drain hole provided for this. The compressor intake air filter should also be regularly checked and cleaned if necessary. The airbrush compressor should always be in a vertical position and placed on a flat base. Many countries have their own rules governing the storage of compressed air compressors. Always follow safety requirements. The airbrush compressor must pass a pre-sale check, during which the air inlets to the compressor are removed. It is desirable that the compressor had a certificate for its mechanisms.

TIPS AND SOLUTIONS TO SOME PROBLEMS

Make sure you have a drawing and specification for an airbrush so that you can identify all its details.
The place where you are going to carry out any repairs should be well lit. It is also good to have a magnifying glass, especially when inspecting small parts and parts of the airbrush (nozzle. Needle tip).
It is very important if you do not know where the fault is or how to fix it. contact your dealer. The mistake you make can cost you dearly.
Check that the nozzle and needle are installed correctly. If they are clogged, damaged, or paint accumulates on them, the spraying results will be unsatisfactory: blots. bubbles, dashed line, or airbrush will not work at all. Make sure the needle is tightly clamped.
When changing the nozzle, use a special key attached to the airbrush. The nozzle should be securely fastened, but be careful not to try to tighten it too much so as not to disrupt the thread. If this happens, purchase a new nozzle, contact your dealer.
Check that the nozzle cap is tight. A loosely twisted nozzle or cap can lead to air passing through the threaded points and the formation of paint bubbles and, of course, to unsatisfactory spraying results.
Always have a spare nozzle and needle. If the repair did not bring the desired results, the best advice is to replace the needle or the nozzle (or both).
Check whether the needle is moving correctly. The results of spraying largely depend on the smoothness of the needle and on what position the needle occupies at the end point (the needle must rest against the nozzle). Two reasons that prevent the movement of the needle: a dried paint on the tip of the needle or the sealing ring. In the latter case, moisten the needle with light grease (for example, machine oil), insert the needle into the airbrush and move it back and forth several times. If the paint flows through the needle into the back of the airbrush or into the area of the control button, the o-rings are worn or damaged. You must purchase new ones by contacting your dealer.
Bubbles in paint pails. In airbrushes with threaded nozzles there is a danger of unscrewing and, as a result, nozzle breakage. To prevent this, the threaded part of the nozzle is covered with a special locking compound that has minimal “adhesive” properties before installation. Disadvantage: air passes through the nozzle threads more frequently, especially after disassembling or replacing the nozzles. This is manifested in the form of the formation of bubbles in the tank for paint. In this case, it is necessary to lock the nozzle threads in the following order: Wrap the nozzle approximately one turn in the threaded hole. Apply a little of our special locking grease (Item 417886) or other composition with a weak locking ability to the open threaded part of the nozzle and gently distribute the grease on the threads of the thread with a thin needle. Wrap the nozzle tightly into the threaded hole and remove excess locking grease with a cloth. If you do not have a special locking grease, you can use zinc white. In order to check whether you have performed the above process well, connect the airbrush to the air source and pour water into the ink tank and try the spraying process.
Obstructed movement of the control button or air leakage from under it. The sealing ring is located on the stem of the control button and prevents air leakage around it. If this ring is too dry or too tight, the result will be a tight stem movement. If the stem moves too freely, air can leak through the sealing ring. In both cases, it is necessary to simply adjust the clamping force of the sealing ring by turning the threaded guide sleeve. This can be done either with a special key (Item 417885). or a screwdriver. In the latter case, first pull out the needle and pull up the stem. so that the screwdriver can get into the slot of the threaded guide sleeve. It is often enough to add a drop of special oil for airbrushes (article 417888) or regular engine oil in order for the stock to start walking more freely. To do this, unscrew the air supply valve, turn the airbrush over and drip the oil onto the rod. Then move the rod back and forth several times. in order to get oil on the sealing ring. If air still passes after this, slightly tighten the sealing ring as described above.
Initial adjustment of airbrushes with “dependent” double action (models of the Top Line series). In some cases (mainly after disassembling into parts), airbrushes of these types require additional adjustment of the initial moment of air flow. To do this, loosen the clamping nut and tighten the adjusting nut approximately 1/2 turn. This pulls back the collet guide of the needle slightly. Secure this position with the locknut and tighten the clamping nut. Now when you press the control button, you must first go only air. If this does not happen, tighten the adjusting nut a little more.

And in conclusion:

Never, after working with an airbrush, do not leave it thoroughly washed. Dry paint often causes damage or poor airbrush performance. Airbrushes with paint residue will not be accepted for warranty service.

Based on:

Gennady Ovsyannikov (master class "Airbrushing for beginners")
"Paints for airbrushing" newspaper "Artindustriya" № 12-2005
Catalog Aero-pro 2005
Journal "Art Council" 6 (52) 2006