(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best airbrush painting supplies

I think it's cool you want to pick up a hobby your father had. It will be a nice reminder every time you pick up the gun.

I use this 100% for miniatures, and it works great!!

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Alright, here is the list I bought. It's a bit more than you want to spend, but this will ensure you can get going right away, and not be frustrated. I did a fair amount of research on different forums, sites, and youtube videos. If you want to know why I chose something, feel free to ask. I was going to bold the ones that you absolutely need, but I would say everything in the first set are a must.

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• Airbrush - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BQKFAI/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Compressor - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TDNKBMC/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (One of the quietest compressors - I use it in the house and my gf can't hear it kick on, and she sleeps in the room right above it.)
  
• Airbrush Hose - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BF7NJ78/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Moisture Trap - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BQO8WY/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Couplers - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003TFE7WK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (Didn't need this big of a set, but if you end up with tools for the compressor they will come in handy.)
  
• Airbrush Cleaner kit - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y3MG6Z4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Respirator - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004Z4EB/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Extra Filters - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NTP9MDO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
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• Cleaner - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003TJA0S6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Thinner - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002X6DTHK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Improver - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QD780G0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
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• Primer I use for minis - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004BMZVMK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
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  For the compressor, I keep mine at about 18-20 while doing miniatures and it's perfect.
  
  I do 1 drop Improver, 5 drops thinner, and 6 drops primer and have perfect flow.
  
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  Feel free to ask any questions! Good luck!
  
  Hvstle

then getting to a Michael's or Hobby Lobby isn't very difficult for you. You do have more Michael's and I would say their selection isn't as good, but it might just be logistically easier.

If you are planning to use this to prime minis, I recommend a .3-.5 mm nozzle. Iwata is a good brand that you will see, but it's more top end. Ebay and Amazon carry Masters, which works fine.
https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Multi-Master-Performance-Dual-Action/dp/B0067BAYNO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1525184378&sr=8-3&keywords=airbrush - Decent one with a variety of size nozzles so you can figure out which one you like the best. Even comes with a hose.

Beyond that, get good paints. Michaels sells testors brand and while it worked, I got a lot of spatter. Hobby Lobby, interestingly enough, has a couple of aisles for mini kits (Army and War) and those are a good resource to get started, in terms of paint and cleaner and such.

Some Compressor + Airbrush sets are good (like those from Pasche or Iwata) but it's all relative to your needs (as a good brush might not be good for Gunpla due to the scale) and what is offered.

There's actually a very good deal going on right now, as you can get a Paasche TG-3F with Compressor and all your needed accessories + Prime shipping (or free Super Saver shipping.)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AI5ZJBW/

With this set you have all you need to functionally airbrush but you'll also want to pick up some needed "accessories" for you.

• Respirator, at least a half mask - Local Hardware Store for best options
  
• P100 Filters - same as above
  
• Alligator Clips on Sticks - you can pick them up at Hardware or Hobby Stores locally as well
  
• Foam Block to put the skewers into and hold up the parts while you paint. Local hobby store, or if you have the packaging material used to ship heavy electronics like TVs that would work as well.
  
• Spray Booth, if you plan to spray inside at least http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B2TESUQ/
  
• Airbrush Lube, Iwata SuperLube or Badger Needle Juice
  
• Cleaning Brushes, just part of your more in depth cleaning routine that you'll need to do. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001N3IX3Y
  
  
  You will also want to pick up some glass jars (for storing & mixing paints) as well as some plastic pipes for more accurate paint measurements (makes the jars less messy as well.)
  
  
  I highly suggest getting an easy to clean brand of paint like Vallejo Air to start with, so you can learn with less trouble as Vallejo can be cleaned up in an instant with Windex or water.

I really like the Sotar 20/20 I got. I watched a few reviews on YouTube before buying one.

At first, I got a cheap $80 kit that came with a brush and small compressor, just to test the water, but using them were a pain. The brush would clog often, the paint was applied inconsistently, and the compressor was hard to regulate due to not having a PSI indicator.

I'd recommend splurging on a good brush, like the 20/20. Watch a few video reviews to see what you like. Iwata brushes were also highly recommended. If you go to a physical store, like Hobby Lobby, you might be able to find a coupon or discount. I heard Hobby Lobby has coupons for up to 50% off some expensive items, but I got mine online via Amazon card financing.

I'd also highly recommend getting something like this to make connecting/disconnecting easier. It's a minor thing, but it's so convenient I can't go back to screwing/unscrewing the hose manually.

Besides that connector, here are the items I got. I've been very happy with them and actively trying to find excuses to use them more.

• Airbrush
  
• Compressor

Yo! I'm no expert, but I'm related to one and I think I can help a little bit.

The basic essentials are a sprue clipper, a model knife, and sandpaper. The wiki has links to those.

As far as painting/lining, there are a lot of options. I 'm pretty lucky in that I already had an airbush and compressor at my disposal, but I've been getting a lot of mileage out of this entry level airbrush. I have two of my own (metallic and non-metallic paints), plus a bevy of nicer badgers/iwatas from my old man.

The real big thing with airbrushing is that you're gonna need a compressor to go with it, as well. Make sure it has a moisture trap, like this one, or things can go very wrong very fast. (That's actually the one I use).

As for paints, the ones my old man recommends are Tamiya acrylics and Model Masters enamels. With the acrylics, I just spray directly on the cleaned part, whereas with the enamels, I use enamel primer first, and let that set before spraying. That's the quick and dirty version of it, though, since actual airbrushing involves mixing paint with thinner, cleaning everything all the time, etc.

As for lining, I like to use Prismacolor lining pens, but that gets expensive fast since they tend to clog up and need to be replaced VERY quickly. Otherwise, gunpla markers (see wiki) are good, and I recently got recommended Tamiya liner, though they recommend only using it over gloss paints or it will be impossible to apply cleanly to mattes.

Anyway, until you get a better answer from a more experienced builder, I hope this helps!

Like, fumes from glue or paint?

The glue fumes from say, Tamiya Extra Thin can kind of start to get to you in a small area, but I found once I had a fan on, it wasn't bad.

As far as painting goes, there are purpose built spray booths for airbrushing, with fans in the back for extracting fumes. Something like this is what I have, although it's a little pricy. I think it's worth it because (the one I got at least) has LED lighting built into it so its really nice for visibility. Although if you were crafty, you could probably make something out of cardboard or wood, PC fans and a length of dryer hose, and there are tutorials on youtube if you wanna go that route. LED lighting strips are also pretty cheap if you wanna rig it up for extra visibility. Anything that has a fan to capture the vapor and some where to vent it safely would do.

At the very least, you should get a Particulate Filter to wear while you're painting, and maybe gluing if you're worried about those fumes. Something like this should be fine. I found mine at the local Lowe's but basically any hardware store will have something similar. Just don't get the little masks like you see nurses wear, those don't really cut it.

Stuff that you need:

• Compressor - What I use There are lots of different compressors out there but you want to at least get one that is designed for airbrushing IE: oil-less and preferably one with a tank. Airbrush compressors are designed to be quiet as opposed to like a shop compressor that is loud as fuck.
  
  
• Airbrush - What I use This is an Iawata eclipse which is more on the expensive side but honestly since the airbrush is what is doing all of the work I opted for quality here. This is not to say that you cannot find good quality airbrushes for less but this particular name and model is fairly well known for being one of the best. You might want to shop around on this one to find one within your budget. The main thing is that you want gravity feed with the cup on the top of the airbrush, and dual action meaning that you press the trigger down for air only and pull back for paint. Single action airbrushes (paint and air together when you depress the trigger) are garbage.
  
  
• Airbrush Flow Improver - link This is what makes airbrushing thick acrylics especially GW paints possible. It allows you to thin down the paints while maintaining good coverage but won't speed up drying time like thinner or pure water will.
  
  
• Misc other stuff - You will also want latex gloves for the hand that you hold models with. Find at auto parts stores or in the first aid section of a drug store in boxes of 100. Masks, either the paper disposable ones or get a painters respirator mask at the hardware store. Simple Green for cleaning your airbrush. I run a full paint cup of it through followed by a full paint cup of water in between colors and when I finish for the day. Gun/Pistol oil for oiling up the moving parts of the airbrush. Find at any place that sells firearms (walmart, academy, outdoor goods stores). I use it to oil up the trigger, as well as all of the threading. I also dip the needle itself in the oil which lightly lubricates the spray nozzle and helps to prevent clogs.
  
  
• Final tip - everything that I learned about airbrushing I have learned from this dude on youtube: Next Level Painting I suggest watching his videos as well as videos from other youtubers to avoid a lot of trial and error. Lastly ... don't be intimidated... it takes practice but once you feel comfortable with using the airbrush it really ups your painting game.

Welcome friend! Airbrush sure is a lot of fun. I don't know your budget but highly suggest getting the best quality kit you can afford. I chose

Iwata Eclipse Hp-Cs Value Set with Hose Cleaner and Paint https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00695CY54/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_A6CjDbF7CC7NV

And it still is a great tool. I got the Ninja compressor. World great. But loud but goes with the territory.

The better the tool, the quicker you learn to paint. Bc you'll know its not the tool but your lack of knowledge causing problems. ☺️

Sure, this is the compressor, though I got it for much cheaper :
https://www.amazon.com/PointZero-Portable-Airbrush-Compressor-Tankless/dp/B004KNBVM4/ref=pd_lpo_201_tr_t_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=NWSYXNWF47C4ZZKDSX4H

And I started with one of these cheaper "master" brand air brush :

https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Multi-Purpose-Dual-Action-Professional/dp/B002KJDXHQ/ref=sr_1_218?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1484064056&sr=1-218&keywords=badger+air-brush

Mine kept clogging though and I thought it was because I wasn't cleaning it enough, but really I was just a noob and wasn't thinning the paint enough. I followed all these complicated fucking guides on how to make my paint thinner and what to mix with it, and what to clean it with. Turns out the easiest solution was just straight dollar store rubbing alcohol. I ended up buying a nicer badger brush and havn't had any problem since, but I know the truth of it. I wasn't thinning down my paint, and when I was done, I wasn't cleaning it out with alcohol either.

Basically now when I want to change colors, I rinse out the cup, hit it with a paper towel to get out most of the paint, blast full blast with a full cup of water, easing on and off the needle action a few times during. Then I do a quarter cup of alcohol (I have a little cup thing I can spray it into so the alcohol fumes don't gas me out), again easing off and on the trigger to kind of work the action. Then I rinse it out once more and hit with paper towel again. Basically do the same thing to clean it when I am done.

Enamel paints and thinners have some nasty organic solvents. You better have a good spray booth or at least an exhaust fan close to your table. I wear respirator masks and safety goggles too since paint and thinner solvents are volatile. I also use nitrile gloves in order to prevent skin contact with nasty organic solvents. My work desk has an improvised spray booth with a pair of surplus 120mm server fans for exhaust.

Acrylic is safe for skin contact but inhaling airborne particles is another story. It's best have a spray booth/exhaust fan and respirator just to be safe. The solvents are non-toxic though. They are mostly composed of water and some isopropanol/butanol as solvents.

Here's a cheap air brush and compressor set from Amazon that I currently use. I'm trying to cut corners this time since I spent a lot for the kits and paints in the past few months lol. The compressor is rather weak so it might take some time to get used to it. I use it in short bursts since the compressor runs hot.

For enamels, I use 1 part paint to 2 parts thinner since my El cheapo air brush can't sustain constant air pressure. I find Revell enamels to be more suitable for air brushing. Humbrol enamels tend to be too thick and needs more thinner. They can be quite tricky to use. I use Mr. Hobby self levelling lacquer thinner for both enamels and Tamiya acrylics. It smells like hell though so you'll definitely need a spray booth or exhaust.

For Vallejo acrylics, I use a cocktail mix of air brush thinner, air brush flow improver and paint retarder. I use 1 part of that cocktail mix and 1 part Model Air. All of them are sold separately by Vallejo. For Tamiya acrylics, I treat it similar to lacquer and enamel paints. Also, Vallejo polyurethane primers work wonders for both acrylics and enamels. The paint binds well to such primers. You might want to give it a shot.

My tip is to try one technique at a time. Take your time working on a single kit. Start mastering the basics of base coat painting using your air brush. Then proceed to painting multiple coats, camouflage patterns, masking techniques etc. Eventually, work on the weathering process. Also, start with cheap model kits for practice so you won't bleed money for the hobby.

Welcome to the club and good luck!

I bought the Master Deluxe Airbrush kit on Amazon (likely the one you saw), and everything /u/BigBraddWolfe said has been my exact experience.

I originally got mine for Gundam model kits, though the brush works fantastically for priming and base-coating miniatures as well. I would definitely recommend the Deluxe over the cheaper version, because the "extras" make all the difference.

The tank allows you a fair bit of continuous spray before the motor kicks in, and pretty much ensures you don't get any rattling or crazy pressure differences. It fills back up pretty quickly, so you won't spend more than a few seconds waiting on it if you choose to wait it out vs. continuing to spray. I'm pretty sure that the extra needles of various sizes, quick-disconnect, fancy hose, and moisture trap are a savings in this bundle when compared to upgrading an existing compressor. In any case, it's doubtful that I'll have to get another compressor in the future assuming this one continues to hold up. It does everything I could ask of it, in about the best way any compressor is going to. It gives me air steadily and for a long time, pressurized to a level I determine, keeps moisture out, and allows me to quickly connect and disconnect the brush.

That last point turns out to be quite the life-saver for the brush itself. It works fine, sprays well, and can go wider or tighter with the included needles. Where this thing may have a little more upkeep vs. an Iwata is in the clean-up between colors. I find myself breaking it down to clean the needle guard and do a "deep cleaning" just about every time I change colors. It just doesn't satisfy me to wash a bunch of cleaner through it and hope for the best. I would imagine an Iwata will create less buildup on the needle and in the guard, allowing you to clean it out a bit quicker. For me, it's not too much of a hassle because I just need to rinse the cup, slide the needle out, give it a wipe, remove and clean the guard, then stick everything back together. With the quick-disconnect I don't have to worry about my compressor's pressure, or the line, or any of that. I pop the brush off, do the quick cleaning, and it's all but spotless a minute later when I pop it back on and go back to spraying.

Even if you have no intention of using the included brush, you're probably still getting a decent compressor fully decked out at a steal. If you want to go and drop the remaining budget on a neo, by all means do so and you'll have a fantastic setup for airbrushing dolls and whatever other large surfaces you want to repaint. If you grab another quick-connect fitting (it seems like most of the hose fittings for compressors are standardized by one of a few manufacturers), then you could switch between them at will for different jobs. Use the basic Master one for priming or whatever rough jobs you need to crank out, and break out the neo for finer detail work.

Thoughts on the first Neo kit I found: it looks like the brush is better but I can't speak definitively on the compressor's workings. It may be quieter than mine, or it could be louder. It looks like the three settings on it are all you get, while I have a little gauge on mine to set my PSI to whatever I want (I typically use 20-25). It may seem like a small thing, but I think it's kind of nice that it has a little holder on it. It's a kind of profound terror to pick up the airbrush, fill it with paint, and realize you have nowhere to put it down when you suddenly need two hands again.

Glad to see you playing with your boyfriend. those are some nicely painted minis as well.

as for airbrushes, I just got into this myself so I'm no real expert but I was able to get a nice starter set from Amazon. the master airbrush set seems like a cheap, but quality series. here is a link to a starter set.
http://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Multi-purpose-Professional-Airbrushing/dp/B006FQCBZK/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1374210946&sr=8-8&keywords=master+airbrush+compressor

or you could always just get the compressor and a brush separate, I would try to get one with a .3mm needle (out of .2, .3, and .5). as the .2 brush that come with that set seemed to get clogged for me (but that could just be from noobness and poor care).

sadly, I dont know too much about tables. I've just been using foldaway tables with felt on top.

as for the skaven Idea, most of the forgeworld stuff is awsome looking and makes a great centerpiece, but if you go play in tournaments or local clubs, most arn't entirely "legal" but I doubt many people would have too much problem playing against it.
and skaven do love their screaming bells. so that would be my recommendation, but only because I think it would find more use. the forgeworld Idea would be more of a nice surprise.

this is a lot of money for a birthday present, that's one lucky guy.

pm me or reply back to this if you want more info

here is my set up. nothing to complain about. and the badger 105 is a great starter. its use of good machining means it only has one o-ring and its dead simple to clean.

https://www.amazon.com/Badger-Air-Brush-Patriot-Gravity-Airbrush/dp/B002W84GTO

https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Fitting-Conversion-Adapter/dp/B0038NJYHG/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_201_lp_t_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=9CTBV4FN6C10RQSFJXPG

https://www.amazon.com/AIRBRUSH-COMPRESSOR-Airbrush-Published-Exclusively/dp/B001738DXU/ref=sr_1_4?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1505354405&sr=1-4&keywords=master+airbrush+1%2F6

then you will need cleaning supplies such as

https://www.amazon.com/Naturebelle-Airbrush-Cleaning-Holder-Nozzle/dp/B01D41W04U/ref=pd_sim_201_12?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=3SG1JR28SAK6TVWHEZ03

https://www.amazon.com/Iwata-Medea-Airbrush-Cleaner-16-Oz/dp/B003TJA0SQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1505354507&sr=1-1&keywords=iwata%2Bairbrush%2Bcleaner&th=1

I'm pretty happy with the quality of everything and it makes painting a base coat of pure white or yellow super simple. also makes painting a color shift or pattern very easy. if you have the cash i would highly recommend it

here are some of my projects i have completed with it

https://imgur.com/a/N4mhr

You typically do not want to take apart an airbrush too often because eventually those little threads on the parts (any parts) will get to where they wont thread back and parts that seal will stop making good seals.

That being said, I have an Iwata CR and I still will break it down completely every so often and give it a good cleaning, typically not the tip unless there is some bizarre issue I cannot resolve. Taking it off hasn’t made it ‘stop’ working before unless you do not get it back on correctly; however, it is not something I normally take off to clean.

If it is gunked up with acrylics, I would suggest taking it off and soaking it in some paint thinner - specifically something formulated for acrylic.

Also, if you haven’t already, get you a cheap set of airbrush brushes:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001N3IX3Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6M3iDbKRWQ4RN

There are numerous Youtube videos showing how to use them as well. After cleaning your airbush you can use these and always get a ton of gunk out. I am not recommending this specific brand BTW. You can find these anywhere, even Harbor Freight for probably half price.

Edit: Couple other things I would like to add:

Make sure your paint is adequately thinned (always use Airbrush flow improver to thin acrylics).

Other thing, keep q-tips handy. If you see some build up on the tip of the nozzle after some spraying it is easy and more effective to use a wet q-tip in some thinner/alcohol/etc to quickly clean off any buildup and safer than your finger.

TAIWANESE builders, I need your help!

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I'm an international graduate student who moved into a dorm in Nangang 2 months ago. Since I'm in a dorm, I've been hand painting, but man no matter how smooth a finish I get, it still doesn't compare to an airbrushed finish. So I need help looking for compressors. In particular, I need to find something tiny and quiet.

At the very least, I need to find something like this. Looks very suitable for a dorm. If anyone can point me to a store that sells an Iwata Power Jet Pro that accepts payment with foreign credit cards, that would be great too!

So basically I need something very quiet and with a size ranging from a mini compressor to an Iwata Power Jet Pro (I think its length is around 30cm). If anyone has other recommendations, go ahead!

I'm using a Master TC-828 twin-piston tanked compressor. It works great, thus far, and I got it with brush (Master G23) and hose for $180 from TCP Global. (I'd have linked the TCP Global page, but their site is broken at the moment)

It's pretty quiet for a cheap compressor, but it keeps a steady stream of pressure at any setting, turning on when it needs to. It's never shut itself off during a paint session, either. I'm not sure if I'm impressed or concerned. It got pretty hot while I was doing a marathon session on my MG GM Sniper, though maybe not hot enough to trip the safety? It didn't stop working, that's for sure, and it still works just fine. Did a bit of painting with it today for that matter.

Obviously, a good Iwata will be quieter and probably run cooler, but this cost $180 with 6 feet of hose and a gravity-feed airbrush, versus $400 for an Iwata compressor on its own. If this compressor ever gives me a problem, maybe I'll upgrade, but so far it's been very solid.

Tbh, if they have neither, go the route I'm poking my wife to go for my birthday. Get a starter kit that has a good compressor but okay airbrush, if it were me I'd rather be given something I can start using right away, especially if they have little to no experience with air brush, you don't wanna give them a nice 150$+ airbrush and then them bend the needle or clog it in the learning stage and if they fall in love with airbrushing all they need to do is invest in the nice airbrush and not have to get a whole kit

EDIT:
Something kinda like this maybe? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0796M9QVJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_rvtQDb7JMF4P2

To add to /u/ZSCampbellcooks said: I've found that a quality tool helps ease some of these pains. I'm not saying go spend an obscene amount on a high end model, get something in the top tier middle. I have 3 that I use: Harder-Steenbeck, Patriot 105, and Master's. I use the 105 the most. It is just so easy to use and produces great results. The Steenbeck is OMG fantastic but I only use it for a narrow band of techniques and the Master's took a lot of work to get to a usable condition. If I'm starting over I'd skip the Master's and Steenbeck until I got real good and I'd purchase the 105 or the Sotar or the Iwata Eclipse. All are highly reviewed and used by pros.

Learning your specific airbrush takes time, especially as a beginner. I got a piece of cardboard and filled the brush with water and practiced. There are youtube videos of pros doing this. Speaking of youtube- watch other people that use airbrushes besides mini painters lot of knowledge out there. Guys that do t-shirts will help with color theory and blending, the model plane/car guys will teach under shading, guys that paint cars can teach fading (there was a guy I saw that did grey smokey skulls on a black motorcycle tank that was legit Louvre quality), on and on.

Anyway, a little long but tldr: get a brush in the middle somewhere and practice practice practice.

And everyone should buy this airbrush cleaner. It's OMG fantastic and won't eat your O-rings in the brush and will even strip paint from your models with out damaging the plastic or resin. I use it all the time, like I bought a case.

Im terrible when it comes to giving advice. Im pretty new to airbrushing and gundams too!
I bought an Iwata airbrush and this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004KNHGCI/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?qid=1449019720&sr=8-11&pi=AC_SX110_SY165&keywords=airbrush+compressor compressor. I love it and it has been very reliable.

If Ive learned anything in my short time in the hobby, I would say its patience.
Take your time when airbrushing. Thin coats and several coats is smarter then one thick coat. Also, learn paint and thinner compatibility.

Good luck!!

I purchased this guy for $64.82. It was an Open Box unit on the Amazon Warehouse Deals. Literally, still shrink wrapped, just in a different box. No damage. Usually a $200-250 air compressor. I was given my first airbrush (my daily driver) as payment during a commission. It is a Badger Patriot 105. I was intimidated by it for over a year and then I decided to jump head first one day and honestly, I haven't looked back. Only regret was not starting sooner. Amazon has the Badger Patriot 105 on sale for $75. At the beginning of the year Badger Airbrush company ran a Happy 54th Birthday Sale and I picked up the Badger Renegade Krome for $54 haha. It retails for $200-250 but Amazon has it on sale for $102. I have yet to use this guy yet, but I am nearing the end of a project and I am going to give it a whirl in a couple weekends. The Airbrush hose for the badgers are listed as well.

My Compressor:

Alternative Compressor 1

Alternative Compressor 2

My 1st Airbrush

My 2nd Airbrush

Compressor Hose


With that being said, you can find deals ALL OVER THE INTERNET....you just have to look for them. I am always scowering the web for the best deals possible haha. For the past 3 years I have been using a 5hp construction grade pancake compressor with a moisture trap. Let me tell you....I REGRET not upgrading to an airbrush compressor much sooner. The air is more consistent, you can fine tune the correct PSI and it is exponentially more quiet. I personally don't care about the tank feature, but that is a personal preference.

Hope this helps you all :D

-B

Depending on what you thin your paints with/what you clean your airbrush with: Yes.

(Personally, I try to avoid inhaling atomized windex, but that's just me.)

There are commercial grade solutions to this, such as this paint booth here that I use and love personally, or you could build your own solution with a cheap fan and $5 of tubing from the hardware store.

it really depends on your budget. One of my favorite brushes is a badger 105 patriot found here

This brush will last you a long time with proper care. It's also reasonably priced and has a great spray pattern (pencil line to almost three inches). As for a compressor I personally use a California air tool - quite air model found here

I use this guy because of the large tank and because it has a rust free tank. Most model or little compressors have tanks that are made out of iron which will rust after some time. But depending on how much you wanna spend here are ones I would recommend because they come with a tank and an adjustable regulator/water trap (but as you can see they are not to far off from the California one)

Paache
PointZero

I have the second one in that list, however after a year the tank rusted even with proper care :(

> I feel like I'm walking down the hallway that leads to me getting an airbrush and just buying the small vials of Tamiya paint...

Yep, that's where you're headed. There are some pretty decent cheapo airbrush kits available. I have this "Master Airbrush" kit, and it works pretty well (there are cheaper versions with just 1 airbrush). You'll be amazed at how little paint it takes to cover a model with the gun. Just make sure you buy thinner... lots and lots of thinner.

I was in the same boat as you. This is all the stuff I bought: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0067BAYNO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001738DXU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KS1II96/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003TJA0SQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1,https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004BN5RUU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 .

I also bought an assortment of paints I thought I'd need. I went with the Vallejo Game Air line. If you look around, you'll see the stuff I bought recommended by many people for novice airbrushers.

Also, when I bought all that stuff, I signed up for the Amazon Prime credit card as well, so I ended up getting like $120 off that order. It worked out pretty well.

Failing to get reflective, mirror like finish. What am I doing wrong?

​

I've been trying to learn how to spot correct paint for the last several months now, with the goal of doing some paint repair on my 2015 Honda Accord (purchased recently), that some people (who don't know how to park/drive) damaged while it was parked.

I've been practicing on a Honda CRV fuel cap that I purchased on ebay. Unfortunately, it's not looking so good. Like, I've learned how to fix almost any kind of scratches in the clear coat. But I'm failing badly at painting a spot and having that spot match the rest of the OEM paint.

The problem I'm having is that after the spot correction (i.e, painting & clear coating) the finish is matte and not the glossy, mirror type finish that's on the rest of the panel.

See the pictures:

https://i.imgur.com/vgQMXWt.jpg

Album with several pictures and Iv'e circled where I've painted:

https://imgur.com/a/R4XSVVP

I can't figure out why it's matte. I wet sand, and then I buff with rubbing, polishing and scratch removal compounds- and this gives the OEM paint areas a mirror like reflective shine, but if anything the area that I painted just turns more dull and matte.

​

​

Here is a list of the specific products that I'm using that can help diagnose whatever the issue is here (or maybe it's that I'm using one or more wrong items that is causing this?) -

​

- I'm painting using an air brush + small compressor I got from amazon for $40, which means I thin the paint (NH731P Crystal Black Pearl that I purchased from ebay) using a rustoleum lacquer.

- This is the Rust-Oleum clear coat that I'm using:

https://i.imgur.com/du8qjS8.jpg

- This is the buffer that I'm using (it's not the fancy, expensive buffers that the professional autobody shops and detailers use):

https://www.homedepot.com/p/WEN-120-Volt-6-in-Waxer-Polisher-6010/203585856

- This is the airbrush compressor kit I'm using to paint base and clear coat with:

https://www.amazon.com/F2C-Compressor-Airbrush-Painting-Manicure/dp/B078J1FBVG/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=airbrush+compressor+kit&qid=1554882651&s=arts-crafts&sr=1-5

- This is the paint I'm using:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/331423642209

...and that covers most of it.

​

Anyway, I was thinking that maybe it was the clear coat I was using, which is on the more cheaper side and maybe that's why it's leaving a matte finish. But then I remembered that I clear coated the entire fuel cap not just the spot that I painted (just so the spot blends and doesn't leave a border). And you can see that the rest of the fuel cap where I clear coated still has that reflective finish and isn't matte, so that's not it.

So, basically I'm confused and I'd really appreciate any help and suggestions that you can give.

If you don’t have a compressor already go with this kit as a starting point. There are other options of similar kits with more stuff, but this is as basic as I would go.

If you already have a compressor I got this one. There are other kits with different needle sizes for not much more if you want to go to that. For me, I figure if I want a different needle size I’ll be to the point of getting a better airbrush so I went with the single needle.

For paints I like Vallejo game air. The badger air paints are good on paper but on minies they are a bit thin on coverage.

Check out the master airbrush stuff on amazon. They are cheap and this one comes with three airbrushes

VIVOHOME 110-120V Professional Airbrushing Paint System with 1/5 HP Air Compressor and 3 Airbrush Kits for Tattoo Makeup Shoes Cake Decoration Black ETL Certified https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0796M9QVJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_A.b2Db104BVWV

Try to avoid syphon fed brushes (ones with the jars on the bottom). They are pretty much only good for priming and even then they aren’t the best.

You’ll also want to get some thinner and flow improver.

Youre going to want to practice airbrushing dots, lines, fades, etc on card board or something first.

You’re also going to want to watch as many videos as possible. YouTube search next level painting, miniac, jack of clubs, etc. tons of information there.

Also check out:

https://www.dakkadakka.com/wiki/en/Zenithal_Airbrushing%2C_OSL_and_Snow_and_Ice_Tutorial%2C_subject_-_Grey_Knight

https://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/251253.page

TCP global makes excellent iwata / badger clones I have one (Master Airbrush® Brand G233-SET Multi-Purpose Precision Dual-Action Gravity F... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0067BAYNO/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_eOaMxbN05V02N)

Works great for base coating, they also make a cheap compressor that works great. I do recommend a spray both and 3m dust masks as the atomized particles are not particularly great to inhale.

I used cheap-ass Master airbrushes and a 3-gal shop compressor with a digital regulator and a moisture trap in between the compressor and the brush. The below, plus a few trips to a hardware store for pneumatic fittings, should be enough.

https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Multi-Purpose-Gravity-Dual-Action/dp/B00EKUU0WY/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1527561384&sr=8-4&keywords=master+airbrush

https://www.amazon.com/PORTER-CABLE-C2002-Oil-Free-Pancake-Compressor/dp/B000O5RO1Y/ref=sr_1_3?s=power-hand-tools&ie=UTF8&qid=1527561398&sr=1-3&keywords=compressor

https://www.amazon.com/PointZero-Airbrush-Compressor-Regulator-Water-Trap/dp/B004KNAHE2/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1527561429&sr=8-6&keywords=airbrush+moisture+trap

https://alclad2.com/finishes/

People regularly say you should get a more expensive, higher quality brush, but to date I've yet to have major problems with my cheapo ones. It seems like the main benefit of the better brushes is ease of cleaning and durability.

Indeed! Came here to say this.

For what it's worth, I actually have the same Air Compressor, and while it basically works right out of the box (I haven't had to empty the water-catch yet), I will say: be careful of overheating. I'm not sure if it's just mine being defective or what, but I worry about it's lifetime if I'm spraying for long periods of time. They get especially hot because they are oil-less motors (which are good things for precision work -- less contamination). I keep the pressure at 20-40 psi, depending on the fluidity and area I'm working on.

Also, though it's mentioned in neutronicus's link, I urge you to buy these things: small pipe-cleaners (nylon most likely, you can get them at pipe shops or Harbor Freight, and get ones with varying bristle sizes)[EDIT]These ones -- comments indicate others disagree, but it's a cheap solution, and it's worked for me., simple green and strong q-tips for cleaning the airbrush, and Windex or a comparable solution to dilute the paints you spray with (some people just use isopropyl alcohol and some just use water, I've only tried Windex).

And finally! Clean your airbrush after every use! It's odd at first, but I've come to find it as a relaxing task after airbrushing.

An air brush kit like this will work fine for starters.

I have something similar and it works great.

The learning curve comes with setting up the airbrush just right. There are several points of adjustment that effect how the paint comes out, and it took me a while to figure out. So lots of trial and error. Getting a giant bottle of cheap water based acrylic primer and playing with that is a good way to start. Or even just plain water on sprayed onto something that will show being wet, brown paper towel or bag, or cardboard worked well.

https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Professional-Compressor-Primary/dp/B00EKT30JK

Thank you! Since I am new the airbrushing scene I didn't want to spend to much, I got a Gocheer duel action gravity feed airbrush. It works pretty well, I just need to get the thinning ratios and PSI setting better. While I'm at it, this is my compressor

I absolutely love this compressor. Couldn’t believe how good it was for the price. Came in this kit. I have the neo and I actually like this airbrush better.
MASTER G22 Multi-purpose Airbrush Kit With Airbrush Depot Compressor and 24 color Set of Paints https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ATALCW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_oKL2BbZTEYJY9

https://www.amazon.com/AW-Portable-Airbrush-Extension-Powerful/dp/B00Y83Y1C8/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=model+paint+booth&qid=1563384851&s=gateway&sr=8-3

​

I've been using this for a year now. Love it.

You probably have dust from the ceiling falling on your wet paint. Get a big clear plastic container and cover your parts after painting so they stay clean.

Just go on Amazon and grab yourself a Master’s Airbrush kit -> Airbrush Kit Its what I got and isnt bad. The compressor gets the job done and in December I will have had everything for a year.

Hope that helps with the airbrush decision making, make sure you post final product!

So still a work in progress. But I figured I would post up what I have so far. Had a catastrophic failure on the hands, broke the outer pieces that the fingers snap in to. Have some touch ups to do and stripping and repainting on the skirts in the works also. Still need to decal, top coat and panel line. But pretty happy with how things are turning out. This is the airbrush kit I am using, along with this hood and if you don't have one of these lamps, do yourself a favor and pick on up. They are awesome.

FIRST, Read this guide (It should answer most questions)

https://miniarmyhugetimesink.wordpress.com/2014/05/15/so-you-want-to-airbush-a-beginners-guide-part-1/

Then, My intro recommendations: (I've included Amazon links, but you can likely find better prices elsewhere)

Badger Krome (a solid intro airbrush) https://www.amazon.com/Badger-Air-Brush-RK-1-Additional-Regulator/dp/B0078MEXX8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494523163&sr=8-1&keywords=badger+krome

Compressor (make sure it has a moisture trap and hose or purchase these seperately)

https://www.amazon.com/AIRBRUSH-COMPRESSOR-Airbrush-Published-Exclusively/dp/B001738DXU/ref=sr_1_5?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1494523192&sr=1-5&keywords=airbrush+compressor

Respirator (a must have for safety):

https://www.amazon.com/3M-07193-Cartridge-Respirator-Assembly/dp/B00079FOK0/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1494523296&sr=8-3&keywords=respirator+mask

Cleaning pot (pipe cleaners optional)

https://www.amazon.com/Naturebelle-Airbrush-Cleaning-Holder-Nozzle/dp/B01D41W04U/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1494523444&sr=8-6&keywords=airbrush+cleaning

Other things you will probably want

• Airbrush medium for thinning paints
  
• A spray booth
  
• pipettes for transfering and mixing
  
• wash bottles for cleaning
  
• airbrush cleaner (I use windshield fluid)

Here are some good options on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.ca/s?k=airbrush+kit&crid=1YHS7OCZVXYBO&sprefix=airbrush%2Caps%2C154&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_2_8

I bought my airbrush and compressor there (but I went a bit more expensive)

You may want to research a bit. some tips. - you want dual action gravity feed airbrush. Also best option for compressor is one with a tank and a moisture trap on it.

Here is an example - https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOHOME-110-120V-Professional-Airbrushing-Compressor/dp/B07N64M2HM/ref=pd_sbs_79_4/136-4351026-9999115?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07N64M2HM&pd_rd_r=78bcd466-a8c4-4559-af80-b5dee1e69cbf&pd_rd_w=Y9Qnz&pd_rd_wg=XFTiU&pf_rd_p=4cf4f791-afd4-44de-a643-8ab281642d0c&pf_rd_r=09QWXE4FH3R5RNPFPDH0&psc=1&refRID=09QWXE4FH3R5RNPFPDH0

My 2 cents:

I got started on a Master Airbrush set....
https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Multi-Master-Performance-Dual-Action/dp/B0067BAYNO?ref_=ast_sto_dp

They work pretty good actually.

I now use Paasche - mostly since they have a "fan tip" which allows for a larger spray pattern.

I will say - using the cheaper airbrush paints (Createx) adds another variable - mostly since you need to thin them. The Golden high flow paints never clog - straight out of the bottle - but they are really expensive.

That being said I learned on Createx paints. :)

From a perspective of just buying a airbrush this past weekend, this is my mindset:
I bought https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07N64M2HM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
At $90 and using it few times already, I feel like I'm already gaining experience in what I feel like I can accomplish and what I feel is capable in doing. I feel like Id be at the same level with this one vs buying the max level dollar cost one. As I max out my level of knowledge I will eventually upgrade. If I mess something up at the mechanical level of the airbrush, I can troubleshoot and figure it out without the anxiety of messing up some high dollar item. And if I do do some permanent damage due to lack of knowledge, I learn from it without a huge burn to the wallet.

Thank you for the help, I'd also like a QD mount. Here are things ive found. Which one/combination of these things should I get?

https://www.amazon.com/Badger-Air-Brush-Co-51-042-Coupler/dp/B003EGZB2Y/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1549178476&sr=8-4&keywords=badger+quick+disconnect


https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Fitting-Conversion-Adapter-x/dp/B0038NJYHG#customerReviews


https://www.amazon.com/Iwata-Medea-I-160-3-Disconnect/dp/B001P5S5CO/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1549178637&sr=8-13&keywords=airbrush+quick+disconnect


https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Release-Disconnect-Connections/dp/B001MKGOUM/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1549178655&sr=8-5&keywords=badger+quick+disconnect

Make sure you buy a hose if you buy a compressor without one (eg. if you buy used).

You will want to buy a respirator.

You can also jump-start his accessories list by including some cleaning supplies (spray-out pot, airbrush cleaner), as well as some paints/primer/topcoat (tamiya, mr color, vallejo, alclad ii, etc.).

I believe this can all be done with a budget of 300$ (assuming US). At this point, he could start spraying that day if he wanted.

EDIT: I use this Master Airbrush Compressor and the Iwata HP-CS airbrush. I've been happy with them so far, but I do wish I spent a little more on a compressor with a tank (as /u/7x13 recommends).

Well something like the little brushes and the pot in this bundle are handy. I have a cleaning pot like that one that usually doubles as a stand for the airbrush, too. Other than that, I don't have much else, besides consumables like pipettes and mixing cups.

you can find a complete kit on amazon for that price...although they arent the top of line name brands...i started out with these models and slowly over time have replaced and upgrade...in my experience they have worked just fine...and hold together great until your ready to dive into badger and what not...
http://www.amazon.com/Multi-purpose-Airbrush-Compressor-Instructional-Quick-Connector/dp/B001ATALCW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1393919390&sr=8-3&keywords=airbrushing+kit

http://www.amazon.com/Paasche-TG-SET-Airbrushing-System-Compressor/dp/B00AI5ZJBW/ref=sr_1_47?ie=UTF8&qid=1393919425&sr=8-47&keywords=airbrushing+kit

Is it worth getting an airbrush and air compressor? Would this air compressor and air brush be good? I've been interested in painting and building more complex kits and was wondering if I should make the investment.

If you're in 'Murica, those Master compressors seem to be a pretty good bargain.

http://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-High-Performance-Cylinder-Compressor/dp/B006ACBL4Q

Id avoid a bundle because you stuck with one of them being crappy.

When I started, I bought a Badger Cyclone. Solid piece of kit but...no one cares...this is what I use now: Master Airbrush Model TC-828, High-Performance Twin Cylinder Piston Air Compressor with Tank and a Free 6 Inch Airbrush Hose https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006ACBL4Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_MyBMwbEKH4EQK

The airbrush Is a very personal choice. If you're really new then learn to maintain on a low-end Badger or Paasche. I used a VL for a very long time till I moved to Iwata.

Either way learning will commence and you'll make smarter choices with more experience. Good luck.

I bought this setup from Amazon. Came with a compressor and 3 airbrushes. I've had it about 3 weeks and I am very pleased with it. I used subscribe and save to get it for about $74. Then I cancelled the subscription. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0796M9QVJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yep. A Badger Patriot 105 and whatever hobby compressor you can find for about $50 (with a water trap and regulator). The airbrush will be easy to use and clean, and the compressor will be fine. Something like this compressor:

https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Compressor-Regulator-Exclusively/dp/B001BJFHAW

There are about a million little compressors like that one out there. It's $70. This is $80:

https://www.amazon.com/Badger-Air-Brush-Patriot-Gravity-Airbrush/dp/B002W84GTO

Bam, $150. 8)

I wouldn't recommend anything cheaper than those, but you may be able to find them on sale if you look around a bit.

Ordered a Badger Patriot 105 only to find out that the store was actually out of stock and didn't expect to get any more for another 3 weeks. Haven't found any other stores that have it in stock and I'm wary of Amazon's current preorder actually being available on schedule.

I figured if it's going to take a while to get a Badger Patriot 105, I could maybe buy a cheaper one to at least get my feet wet in regards to airbrushing, cuz like every other piece of painting equipment i bought for an airbrush setup arrived except for the airbrush itself. That said, I don't really know much about the cheaper quality airbrushes, so looking for testimonials from people that have tried using the cheaper ones like maybe this $20 master airbrush i found on amazon.

Also, wut can I do in the mean time to check that my compressor is working properly, just in case I need to return it to get a replacement?

You can get a tankless one .

It runs near constantly and can heat up. They are not ideal, but can do the trick for small jobs. I tend to work on my models for an entire day once a week, so I have one with a 3L tank.

If you got the super cheapie one there for $60 you could get the Badger 105 and you would probably have a little bit left over.

There is also this one. It is cheaper, so I really can’t speak to it’s quality.

I bought this kit and I've been having decent luck with it. You might also want to pick up a spray booth and a spray-out pot like this.

I went with the kit because I live in a tiny apartment, so a big and/or loud compressor wouldn't work. You might be able to save some dollars going for something bigger with a tank on it. My understanding is that the brush is much better than no-name cheap airbrushes, but not quite as nice as some of the higher end Iwatas.

This is enough airbrush to learn on and paint basecoats, shading, and block-in colors for miniatures and smaller models, but it doesn't have enough power to be very versatile outside of that range (you're not going to be painting a van with it, and freehanding fine lines/details won't be the best).

I was just looking at that I believe Here. Seems to be a good kit since it comes with a compressor, can always get a nicer airbrush from Badger later if I need I suppose. Do you know if the cable for the compressor would be universal to use on a Badger? (I am assuming they would make this universal since it is probably a compressor/airbrush standard)

Hey! I began airbrushing only last year, so I was looking for a cheap starting kit. And for now, this hardware is perfect for my needs:
https://www.amazon.com/F2C-Compressor-Airbrush-Painting-Manicure/dp/B078J1FBVG/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1TJ68R39WI5PG&keywords=airbrush+kit&qid=1558961902&s=gateway&sprefix=airbrush%2Caps%2C1101&sr=8-4


For 40 bucks it's a real bargain.

I actually went to Amazon and looked at a few of their airbrush kits. Would you recommend something like this?

It's an okay deal - the same set runs about 120 on amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EKT30JK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_TaZUAbW42VZ49.

What is your budget? I have used the master air brushes, but I found them to be very hard to use as a beginner. In my opinion, they are very temperamental. That said, they do get the job done. If you decide to pick it up, make sure to check it for bent needles and faulty o rings. One of the issues with the masters is the o ring they use. It deteriorates when you clean the brush with certain solvents.

https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Professional-Compressor-Primary/dp/B00EKT30JK/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1549047922&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=master%2Bairbrush&dpPl=1&dpID=61tUsjMt1OL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

Can some one give me input, preferably some one who owns this product, towards how it performs in their current usage and how it's been holding up. I'm trying to get into painting my gunplas but I dont wanma brake the bank on the airbrush kit, rather break the bank buying a gundam, other cheap recommendations are greatly appreciated.

So, you could start with this (this is what I started with, and while it tends to clog, it does the job):https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Multi-purpose-Dual-action-Compressor/dp/B001TO578Q/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1520958546&sr=8-4&keywords=masters+airbrush

But if you want to dive in head first...I recommend the below:
https://www.amazon.com/AIRBRUSH-COMPRESSOR-Airbrush-Published-Exclusively/dp/B001738DXU/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1520958546&sr=8-12&keywords=masters+airbrush
& https://www.amazon.com/Iwata-Eclipse-Hp-Cs-W-Airhose/dp/B00695CY54/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1520958642&sr=8-2&keywords=iwata+hpcs


As for accessories - get yourself some m3 masks, gloves, medea airbrush cleaner https://www.amazon.com/Iwata-Medea-Airbrush-Cleaner-16-Oz/dp/B003TJA0S6/ref=pd_sim_21_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B003TJA0S6&pd_rd_r=ZNFGCQKPJZHMJ0HX1Y51&pd_rd_w=sFOW8&pd_rd_wg=8bTp7&psc=1&refRID=ZNFGCQKPJZHMJ0HX1Y51, and one of these https://www.amazon.com/Airbrush-Cleaning-Needle-Nozzle-Holder/dp/B0154HN2NA/ref=pd_sim_21_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0154HN2NA&pd_rd_r=ZNFGCQKPJZHMJ0HX1Y51&pd_rd_w=sFOW8&pd_rd_wg=8bTp7&psc=1&refRID=ZNFGCQKPJZHMJ0HX1Y51

I've sprayed a lot of stuff through mine, But the best paint right out of the bottle i've tried is Vallejo air. It was easiest to start with in my opinion not wanting to fuss or try to get thinning right.


And I cant recommend an inline filter/water trap enough. I have a filter on the compressor and an inline next to the gun, really makes a difference on the end result

http://www.amazon.com/Iwata-Medea-Pistol-Grip-Moisture-Filter/dp/B000BQO8WY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1412622478&sr=8-2&keywords=water+filter+iwata

Reviews say this one is a knock off, but this is what they look like, any local hobby store should have em. or on tcpglobal.com

http://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Multi-purpose-Professional-Airbrushing/dp/B006FQCBZK/ref=pd_sbs_ac_1

I got this as my first set about a week ago. I've only used it once, but it was easy to assemble and use.

I've been using the Iwata Neo. It's inexpensive and comes with a compressor. I've been happy so far.

Iwata NEO CN Gravity Feed Airbrush Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J4GTIUI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_rvq0Bb57ZKEBE

Edit: added link.

Thanks for the information! I never considered that the Iwata Ninja will pulse air as there is no collection tank.

​

I thought of getting this cleaning kit and this cleaning solution.

https://imgur.com/gallery/8qkPJlw

I had it slightly wrong. It's a female quick release tip, then male to male nipple, then regulator, then male to male adapter, then female to male adapter, then hose. I THINK all the fittings are 1/4", and the house adapter 1/8". I've also heard the threads on the hose aren't the US standard or something so make sure it fits on whatever adapter you find. Assuming you can get to a home depot, you can probably just show them this pic as well as bringing your compressor and hose in.

I run the compressor at about 60 psi, then fine tune with the second regulator.

I love the eclipse. It's basically the standard for a first non-cheap airbrush. It can spray both narrow and wide, and the large nozzle size can handle metallics and matte coats without clogging. The nozzle is very easy to damage irreparably if you're not careful. You can get a replacement at Hobby Lobby, but it'll be roughly 20 bucks with the coupon.

I bought the airbrush from Hobby Lobby with the 40% off coupon, and it came with one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/Iwata-Medea-Pistol-Grip-Moisture-Filter/dp/B000BQO8WY

It's second stage moisture trap but it also makes the airbrush more comfortable to hold. I don't think Amazon carries the pistol grip bundle. Not a necessity but I like it.

A paintbrush cleaning tank/jar? There are a few different kinds coming up in an Amazon search:

Winsor & Newton Silicoil Brush Cleaning Tank https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0027ACEI2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2endBbEJFRBEQ


Mona Lisa 16-Ounce. Capacity Cleaning Tank (160-017) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001UAOEDS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UhndBb46Z066V


Naturebelle Airbrush Cleaning Pot, Clean Paint Jar with Air Brush Holder + Nozzle Cleaning Brush Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D41W04U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_0indBb23RN51R


Portable Stainless Steel Leak-Proof Premium Brush Washer with Lid and Filter Screen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07517W32S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CjndBb6S65C6H

is this going to be an heavy hobby? like doing this a couple times a month? I bought this one

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EKT30JK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Alot of people will say the airbrushes included arent the best but Ill be honest. I had no issues using it for my first kit ever or my first paint job. This is what the results were for the body.

http://imgur.com/a/7XDaq

if you can invest in a better air gun and compressor that would probably be wiser if you plan to do this alot

For the cleaning, is a kit like this + a cleaner bottle sufficient ?

https://www.amazon.com/Airbrush-Cleaning-Needle-Nozzle-Holder/dp/B0154HN2NA/ref=pd_sbs_201_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0154HN2NA&pd_rd_r=DZ25PQSDETTFJ34XKR7V&pd_rd_w=I9Shh&pd_rd_wg=KKqnH&psc=1&refRID=DZ25PQSDETTFJ34XKR7V

This, and getting out of the hobby and won't need them, nor the cleaning kit and pot, the gloss top coat, or the air brush cleaner.

I got this one. It's supposed to get here today and hopefully works.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N64M2HM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UeTDDbAXEFNJB

I see two different Iwata Eclipse listed on Amazon with a price difference of $5? Whats the difference and which one should I get?

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https://www.amazon.com/Iwata-Eclipse-Hp-Cs-W-Airhose/dp/B00695CY54/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1540928163&sr=8-2&keywords=iwata+eclipse&dpID=51odG-D4KWL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

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and

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https://www.amazon.com/d/Airbrush-Materials/Iwata-Medea-Eclipse-Action-Airbrush-Gravity/B000BQKFAI/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1540928163&sr=8-3&keywords=iwata+eclipse

I recommend this one because it's cheap and gets the job done.
PointZero Portable Airbrush Air Compressor Tankless Oil-less 1/5 HP https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004KNBVM4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_e6c3CbH2BCW5E

I see a lot of people recommend this one

I have this, and I love it. The brush is not bad. $60 you can get iwata airbrush and the setup won't be bad at all.

VIVOHOME 110-120V Professional Airbrushing Paint System with 1/5 HP Air Compressor and 1 Airbrush Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N64M2HM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_fUTzDbD4M9WQ4

so should i just get a tank ? Is that brand "master airbrush" decent ?
I found this one on amazon
http://www.amazon.com/PointZero-Airbrush-Compressor-Twin-Piston/dp/B004KNHGCI/ref=sr_1_4?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1416586807&sr=1-4&keywords=airbrush+tank+iwata

Interested in the lot, have airbrush and compressor, opened but never used.

Compressor

Airbrush

You'll need a compressor as well.

https://www.amazon.com/PointZero-Portable-Airbrush-Compressor-Tankless/dp/B004KNBVM4/ref=mp_s_a_1_9

I want to get an airbrush, wondering what would be the best to start with - in a video about airbrush the guy had one he labeled as "beginner" for ~100$, now I found one on ebay that goes for half that but doesn't have a compressor like the other one, I'm wondering if it'd still do the job...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006FQCBZK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_jC1iDbZH3RHNJ

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.de%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F303154927748

DIY is basically plywood, an HVAC filter and flex duct, a big computer fan rigged to a power supply, and some elbow grease.


This is the other option. Which I see has started to come up in cost:
https://www.amazon.com/AW-Portable-Airbrush-Extension-Powerful/dp/B00Y83Y1C8/ref=zg_bs_12898811_6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=D7375TY52WY9C1JCG2M3


You can do the DIY for half of that, really. You might even have some of the materials at hand, and it doesn't have to be wood. I've seen people do them out of cardboard, but you'll have to worry about all the dust cardboard attracts.

You can try windex as airbrush thinner. Works fine for me with vallejo and gw paints (which work fine in airbrushes).


That's a lot of coin to drop on a compressor. tbh I don't know what difference you would experience if you went with something like this instead
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006ACBL4Q?psc=1

Recheck if you need to buy a hose and water trap. The compressor you linked above comes with both and says the hose included "fits Iwata airbrushes" unless you want that braided-ness.

Check the size of the booth or if you can DIY it. It's not very big at all.

Dimensions when Set-Up: 16.5" Wide x 19" Deep x 13.5" High

Without knowing the condition of the brushes/compressor, you can get a new compressor and brush for about the same price. Honestly starting out it would probably be more confusing to have all those brushes at your disposal instead of becoming proficient with one.

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Compressor with tank - $70

Badger 105 brush - - $78

Cleaning kit - $14

Total new (minus tax) - $162

I think that is just a quick release.

Here is the one I used.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0038NJYHG?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Mr Leveling thinner contains a retarder to slow the paint drying time a little bit to give your paint time to self level, so that is generally the recommended thinner.

This is what ill be saving up for first i think.

http://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Multi-purpose-Professional-Airbrushing/dp/B006FQCBZK/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=EA1E21Z4PQB5&coliid=I2UNQ6CNSGJS4R

I will use it for painting models mainly, but may look into starting designs for motorcycles and cars as well, this will give me everything i need all in one package

Iwata Airbrushes NEO CN Gravity Feed Airbrush Set, IWAIW120 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J4GTIUI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-L2XDbX3CMTVC

For a starter I feel the price is good for the gun and compressor. It top feeder which is what I want. It not top of the line but I think it will do for practicing.

A really quiet airbrush-compressor. We ran one of those in a shop i worked in and we never had any problems. http://www.amazon.com/Quiet-AIRBRUSH-COMPRESSOR-Regulator-FREE-HOSE/dp/B001BJFHAW

I got this kit on Amazon. Not a workhorse, nor quality but it works for minor jobs where I need to cover a small area quickly.

I travel a lot so have this for painting when in my hotel room.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004KNBVM4/ref=cm_sw_r_fm_apa_3cR2Ab35KWJ6C do you think this compressor + the iwata neo cn will work?

Looking for opinion on an airbrush to buy narrowed it down to these three.

Iwata HP-CS

Iwata Revolution CR

Paasche TG-3F

These are quite handy.

Would this also work too?

https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Fitting-Conversion-Adapter/dp/B0038NJYHG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1510319910&sr=8-3&keywords=badger+adapter

It's the same thing as this thing: https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Compressor-Regulator-Training/dp/B001BJFHAW/ref=sr_1_4?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1543126347&sr=1-4&keywords=TC-20

You basically paid $100 more for a fancy sticker and purple handle.

https://www.amazon.com/Naturebelle-Airbrush-Cleaning-Holder-Nozzle/dp/B01D41W04U/ref=sr_1_25?keywords=airbrush+jar&qid=1572016667&sr=8-25

The master airbrush compressors use bsp style while badger uses npt style. I think my badger Patriot uses 1/4 inch npt. But all you should need is the adapter

Master makes this https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0038NJYHG/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1520121088&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=badger+airbrush+adapter

Edit: of course also each brand of airbrush uses it's own connector on the airbrush itself rather than standard sizes. Hence the need for the adapter

What works insanely well is an adjustable small air compressor. You should take it outside though because it blows dust EVERYWHERE. Also make sure you start off with a low PSI, because something higher could damage parts! This is mine, it's relatively quiet and a BEAST!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001BJFHAW/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_10?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A23ADOZFIJNPFB

I bought a master brand airbrush kit off amazon this Christmas and along with what i found here. Here are my thoughts:

What i don't like about the Ninja:

• While it does have a regulator knob there is no gauge to know what pressure your spraying out. I know my badger primer says it should be sprayed at 20-30 psi which this compressor isn't rated for
  
• There is no auto shutoff if the unit becomes hot so you have a working time of about 30 mins before you should give it a 20 min break.
  
• There is no included moisture trap or tank with the short working time I assume that moisture shouldn't be a huge issue but there is always the possibility. Since there is no tank there is some possibility you could experience pulsing.
  
  The spirit jet is very similar to the compressor I have but mine was significantly cheaper. If you look on Amazon there are tons of this exact compressor that companies have just stuck their sticker on.
  
  Iwata Paasche Master
  
  Personally, I would get one of the no-name brands with a tank for less than what you would pay for the name brand ones. Then use the money you saved to get a decent brush or the accessories you need. The ones that come with the Master kits isn't terrible if you are new but once you use a higher quality brush you'll see the difference.

I bought a kit similar to this but with only 1 siphon fed dual action airbrush. I have little to complain about it.

I actually just got into it myself. I got a cheap one but I've had no complaints with it. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0067BAYNO/ref=sxl1?qid=1463689723&sr=1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65

Start up costs can be deceiving. I already had a compressor but ten I had to find a random adapter. Then a in line water filter, airbrush cleaner, cleaning can(made my own), paints, ect. You can see how it adds up.

I've been using the equivalent of this for three years: https://www.amazon.com/Master-Airbrush-Professional-Compressor-Primary/dp/B00EKT30JK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1543307927&sr=8-3&keywords=Airbrush+kit+with+compressor Master and equivalent kits like this are the cheapest end of acceptable airbrushes, although enthusiasts will nudge you in the direction of higher end airbrushes made by Badger, Iwata, etc.

I've found that a simple kit like that is more than adequate for basecoating, lighting, shadows and varnishing. If you're going to buy an airbrush kit, the things you absolutely need are:

Dual-action gravity-fed airbrushes. Gravity feeds allow you to work with smaller amounts of paint and dual-action is mandatory for the extra control you get when doing smaller work.

A decent compressor. The kind pictured in that kit is a good start and there are variants with tanks. These compressors run well and run without maintenance just fine, but you need one of a good size. Never fall into the trap of buying an ultra-portable mini compressor used for cake decorating or nail art because they are too small and tend to overheat.

In my opinion, the compressor is actually more important than your choice of airbrush because if your airbrush fails, you can just buy another one and screw it onto the hose. And having a weaker airbrush mostly means more cleaning and hassle, but won't necessarily make your product worse. Having a shitty compressor means you will always have shitty painting experiences.