What is acrylic paint for airbrush painting?

Acrylic paint is a paint made primarily from water and acrylic resin. It is also called "water-based acrylic paint" and is environmentally friendly because it uses a small amount of organic solvents.

Water-based paints are sold by manufacturers such as Tamiya and GSI Creos, and because they are water-based, brushes and tools can be washed with water after use. However, since they can clog handpieces, we recommend using a tool wash for cleaning.

In addition to acrylic paints, other major paints used in airbrush painting are

In addition to acrylic paint, there are other paints that can be used for airbrush painting. Here we will explain lacquer paint and enamel paint.

Lacquer paint

Lacquer paint is an oil-based paint called an organic solvent-based acrylic resin paint, and is often used in airbrush painting. Lacquer paint has good color development and a glossy finish, giving it a glossy appearance. It also dries quickly, making it easy to repaint.

Another feature is the strength of the paint film. The paint film is the film that forms after the paint dries, and lacquer paint has a strong paint film that is resistant to scuffs and scratches.

However, lacquer paint has a very strong thinner smell, so some people may find the pungent smell bothersome. When using lacquer paint, it is important to ensure good ventilation.

Enamel paint

Enamel paint is a paint used for auxiliary purposes, such as applying fine brush strokes after painting. Enamel paint has the advantage of spreading well and not easily becoming uneven. Metallic colors in particular have a good luster and texture, and even when applied with a brush, they produce a beautiful sheen.

Enamel paint takes a long time to dry, and it dries slower than the other two paints. However, the coating is not very strong. It has the weakest coating of the three types of paint, so you need to be careful about peeling and scratches after it dries.

The benefits of using acrylic paints for airbrush painting

There are five benefits to using acrylic paint for airbrush painting. Here we will explain the benefits of acrylic paint in detail.

The odor is suppressed

A major advantage of acrylic paint is that it has less odor. Compared to lacquer paint, it uses less organic solvents, so it has the advantage of having less of a thinner smell or irritating odor. Therefore, it is also good for people who cannot use lacquer paint because of its strong smell.

However, you need to take measures to prevent the particles from entering your body. When airbrushing, wear a mask and goggles to prevent inhaling the particles. Also, make sure there are no family members or pets nearby.

The concentration can be adjusted with water

Some manufacturers that sell acrylic paints also sell thinners specifically for this purpose. Since the concentration of acrylic paint can be adjusted with water, there is no problem with adjusting the paint with water. However, if the paint contains too much water, it will be more likely to be repelled by the object when you paint with an airbrush, so it is recommended to use a thinner specifically for this purpose.

Possible to paint on polystyrene foam

Acrylic paint can be used to paint polystyrene foam. Lacquer paint cannot be used to paint polystyrene foam because it dissolves it. However, acrylic paint will not dissolve polystyrene foam, so acrylic paint is recommended for painting polystyrene foam.

Can be washed with water before drying

Water-based acrylic paints can be washed with water. They have the property of dissolving in water before they dry, so they have the advantage of being relatively easy to clean. Brushes and tools can be washed with water, making them easy to use.

However, recent water-based paints are characterized by their high performance and tendency to stick easily. Generally, they can be washed with water before they dry, but be careful as it may be better to use a special cleaning solvent called tool wash for the final cleaning.

Disadvantages of using acrylic paint for airbrush painting

There are also disadvantages to using acrylic paint for airbrush painting. Here we will explain two of these disadvantages.

Poor adhesion and coating

Acrylic paints use less organic solvents than lacquer paints. Therefore, they have the disadvantage of weaker adhesion and film formation than lacquer paints. Lacquer paints contain a lot of organic solvents, so they dissolve the surface as they set. However, acrylic paints contain less organic solvents, so they have poorer adhesion after drying.

Also, the paint film is not strong after drying, so you need to be careful about peeling and scratches.

Paint drips may occur

When using an airbrush, if you are not careful about the amount of paint you spray, the paint may drip. If you use too much paint, the paint may drip, so it is important to adjust the amount you spray.

What scenes are acrylic paints suitable for? How to choose paint

Acrylic paints contain less organic solvents, which reduces odor. Therefore, acrylic paints are recommended for people who don't like strong odors.

It is also suitable for painting polystyrene foam because it does not dissolve the foam. However, when choosing the paint to use, be careful as you need to choose the right one depending on the purpose and target.

Regarding the order of application when using different paints together

There are many cases where paint is applied in layers. Because there are many different types of paint, when applying multiple coats of paint, it is necessary to have a thorough understanding of the compatibility between paints and the order in which they are used together.

For example, if you apply acrylic paint as a base and then lacquer paint on top of that, the acrylic paint will dissolve, so be careful. If you are using both paints, it is important to apply the lacquer paint first.

RAYWOOD is the place to go for all the tools you need for airbrush painting

If you want to get the tools you need for airbrush painting, we recommend RAYWOOD . RAYWOOD is a company that operates airbrush businesses, RC car businesses, hobby supplies businesses, and has also established the airbrush specialty brand PROFIX.

PROFIX offers everything you need for airbrush painting, from airbrush sets to paints. With a wide variety of airbrushes and paint booths, you're sure to find the airbrush painting tools you need.

summary

There are several paints that can be used for airbrush painting, but acrylic paint is also an option. Acrylic paint has the advantages of being odorless, being able to adjust the concentration with water, and being washable. However, it also has the disadvantage of having poor adhesion and film formation, and being prone to dripping, so it is important to choose the right paint for your application.

RAYWOOD carries a wide variety of tools necessary for airbrush painting. We offer high-quality products at reasonable prices and have a system in place to provide support to our customers. If you are looking for airbrush painting supplies or hobby tools, why not try us out?

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