◾️Handpiece type

The handpiece is the part that controls the amount of paint sprayed and is divided into three types.

・Single action: Paint by simply pressing a button ・Double action: Paint by pressing a button and pulling a button ・Trigger action: Gun type that paints by pulling a trigger

Double action and trigger action are highly versatile airbrushes that allow you to adjust the amount of paint sprayed while you paint.

◾️Nozzle diameter

The nozzle at the tip of the handpiece has different diameters that determine the amount of paint sprayed and the amount of air used, with the following three types being the most common.

・0.2mm
・0.3mm
・0.5mm

The 0.3mm nozzle can be used for everything from ultra-thin lines to solid paint. 0.2mm is best for detailed work such as drawing thin lines. Also, if you want to spray a wide area or use highly viscous paint, it is better to choose the larger 0.5mm nozzle.

Changing the nozzle diameter depending on the application or design will expand the range of expression and improve work efficiency.

◾️Paint cup type

The paint cup is the part that holds the paint, and there are two types: integrated and separate. The integrated type is suitable for detailed work, and has the advantage that it can be washed together with the main body. However, the cup needs to be washed after each color, and the capacity is small, so it is not suitable for painting large areas.

The advantage of the separate type is that you can change the cup size according to your purpose, and you can replace the cup when you want to use multiple colors. However, paint tends to remain on the connecting parts, so cleaning is time-consuming.

1. RAYWOOD (PROFIX)

RAYWOOD is a manufacturer that handles airbrushes, RC cars, and hobby supplies. In 2021, we established a specialized airbrush brand called "PROFIX."

The "PROFIX Tech Liner Rechargeable Airbrush Set TR-02 PRO" is an airbrush set that meets all professional standards. The handpiece uses the "TH-C01" which allows you to freely adjust the amount of air and paint sprayed.

In addition, the nozzle is equipped with a 0.3mm diameter as standard, and the nozzle diameter can be changed and cleaned without removing the nozzle from the head. The compressor uses a replaceable battery that allows you to check the remaining charge, and also supports fast charging.

It is equipped with a pressure sensing switch, and the auto switch will operate even when the hose is connected.

Click here to purchase the PROFIX Tech Liner Rechargeable Airbrush Set TR-02 PRO.

◾️2. Tamiya

Tamiya is one of Japan's leading manufacturers of models and plastic models. It leads the global model hobby and has earned a high reputation. It is also notable for handling a wide range of products, including not only RC cars and plastic models, but also paints, airbrushes, and tools.

The main airbrush products include the "Spraywork HG Trigger Airbrush (Super Fine)". This product is a trigger-type airbrush with an integrated paint cup that makes it easy to use for long periods of time without getting tired.

The paint cup is easy to clean and has grooves to prevent paint dripping. The nozzle has a diameter of 0.2 mm and can be used with most paints that can be diluted.

◾️3. GSI Creos

GSI Creos is a specialized trading company for textiles and industrial products. We operate our own brand "Mr.Hobby" and plan, produce, and sell model paints, airbrushes, and other products.

They also carry a wide range of painting tools, with their main airbrush product being the "Procon BOY Double Action LWA05." This product is a double-action model with an integrated paint cup.

With a 0.5mm nozzle and a large 15cc cup, it can be used for wide-area painting such as spraying surfacer. This airbrush can spray stably even at low pressure.

4. Airtex

Airtex is a manufacturer that develops, manufactures, and sells low-cost, high-quality airbrushes. They offer a wide variety of colors, and many of their products are priced under 10,000 yen, making them easy to purchase.

The "α501 Airbrush" is a double action type with a separate paint cup. The nozzle has a diameter of 0.3 mm, but since it is a nozzle-free type, you can replace it with any diameter you like. Two paint cups, 2cc and 7cc, are standard equipment, and the 7cc cup comes with a lid.

The adjuster allows you to keep the amount of paint sprayed constant, making this an airbrush easy to use even for beginners.

◾️5.Aurochs

Aurochs is a manufacturer that handles a variety of hobby tools, mainly for artistic painting. They sell high-performance tools at low prices, and come with a comprehensive warranty that is unique to Aurochs.

A popular product is the "Airbrush Compressor ver.2.5sp Rechargeable Automatic Power Double Action" which was fully supervised by an active art painter. The airbrush has a 0.3mm diameter paint cup and a brass body.

In addition, the rechargeable compressor is a cordless handheld type with an auto switch. It supports various charging methods and can be used while charging via USB.

◾️Paints and solvents

Airbrush painting requires paint and solvent. Color paints are mainly "lacquer paint," "acrylic paint," and "enamel paint," and each has different characteristics, so it is best to use them according to your purpose and use.

Solvents are used to dilute paint and clean it. There are "thinners" to adjust the concentration of paint, "surfacers" to hide the color of the base, and "tool cleaners" to remove paint from tools.

◾️Paint booth

A paint booth is a separate space used for painting work. It prevents paint from splashing when using an airbrush and prevents the inhalation of organic solvents.

In addition, when using paints with strong odors, ventilation is necessary, so it is a good idea to consider products with ventilation functions such as fans and filters. A simple booth made of cardboard and newspaper can also be used instead.

◾️Other accessories

When airbrushing, it is useful to have the following accessories ready:

・Paint tray ・Tissue paper ・Gloves ・Mask

The paint tray is used when diluting and mixing paint. The tissue paper is for wiping off paint and cleaning, and the gloves are for preventing dirt. It is also a good idea to prepare a mask to prevent inhaling paint and organic solvents and to protect against odors.

◾️1. Spray the primer to create a base

Before painting, a primer is sprayed on to create a base. A primer is a type of paint that is used as a base coat for painting plastic models, cars, and exterior walls.

In addition to adjusting the color and texture, it also hides small scratches and unevenness and improves the adhesion of paint. Gray, white, and pink are the three most common colors, and it is best to use them depending on the base color of the plastic model.

◾️2. Dilute the paint and test spray

Next, dilute the paint with a solvent. Transfer the paint to a paint tray and add thinner. We don't recommend doing this in the paint cup of your airbrush, as it can clog the paint and remove the coating.

The dilution ratio varies depending on the manufacturer, compressor discharge pressure, and painting environment. When using RAYWOOD's NITRO-COMP V2, first dilute with 1 part paint and 1 part thinner, then perform a test spray to adjust.

◾️3. Paint the parts

Once the paint is ready, you can paint the parts. You can paint all at once, but until you get used to it, the basic method is to spray multiple coats.

If you apply too much paint, it can cause uneven application or dripping. Be sure to clean your airbrush after painting. If any paint remains on it, it can harden and cause the airbrush to break down.

◾️Can I use a second-hand airbrush?

Second-hand airbrushes can also be used. They can be purchased from second-hand shops and flea market sites. However, some are in poor condition or missing parts, so it is best to buy a new product from a manufacturer like those introduced here.

◾️What should I do if the airbrush paint won't come out?

If paint won't come out of your airbrush, check the following:

・Is the nozzle clogged with paint? ・Is the tip nozzle loose? ・Is the head assembly attached securely? ・Is the air adjuster open? ・Is the needle fixed securely? ・Is there any center misalignment?