Airbrushes – Understanding Their Key Features

Different airbrushes offer their user different benefits. Most of the time, the airbrush you choose will depend a lot on what you will be using it for. Here is a brief explanation of some of the key features that you should look out for.

Badger Gravity Feed Airbrush

Mix

An airbrush will either have an external or internal mix. An external mix combines the air and paint after they leave the tip of the airbrush whilst an internal mix combines the air and paint whilst they are still inside.

Action

The action of an airbrush refers to the trigger used to control its various functions and overall spray pattern. If an airbrush is single action, the trigger will spray both paint and air. However, if it is double action, the trigger will require two movements; one for the paint and one for the air.

Feed

Unlike the air in an airbrush, which simply requires an air pressure source to work, the paint needs to be fed through before it can be sprayed. The three different types of feeds used are the ‘Gravity Feed’, the ‘Siphon Feed’ and the ‘Side Feed’.

Gravity Feed – This feed relies on gravity to draw the paint out of the colour chamber which is usually located on top of the airbrush. This allows for more precise airbrushing as less air pressure and air suction is required.

Siphon Feed – Also known as the “bottom feed”, it works on the principle of a siphon which draws the paint out of the connected colour chamber, making colour changing quick and easy to do. Siphon fed brushes can typically hold larger amounts of paint and are therefore a preferred choice for larger scale projects.

Side Feed – Side fed airbrushes are popular for their adaptable nature and allow you to work easily at various angles, without obstructing your view.

Papercrafts Airbrush Kit

Airbrush Kits

Kits are an ideal solution for individuals who are new to airbrushing as they contain all the basic equipment for a wide variety of projects including cake decorating, model making and paper crafts.

GraphicAir is a top UK distributor of airbrushes as well as a wide range of other related products. Visit their website today to view their full range of airbrush kits and other handpicked art and graphic design equipment.

8 Different Types of Airbrush Kits

Custom Graphics Airbrush Kits

When you use the right types of airbrushes and equipment for your specific projects or applications, they are bound to be a success.

If you are new to the world of airbrushing, an airbrush kit is the best way to get all the equipment you will need without having to buy each piece individually, making it both a convenient and cost effective option.

Here are the different types of airbrush kits to choose from;

1. Custom Graphic Kits – These are mainly for graphic applications and usually consist out of an airbrush, compressor, paints and airbrush cleaners with a choice of stencil and airbrushing book.
2. Cake Decorating Kits – These will provide you with everything you need as far as cake airbrushing and sugar crafts is concerned. Each kit generally contains an airbrush, compressor, paints, an airbrush cleaner, stencil and instruction booklet.
3. Textile Kits – These include all the necessary equipment for airbrushing on various fabrics such as leather and cotton. Each basic kit includes an airbrush, compressor, paints, a stencil and DVD.
4. Papercraft Kits – These are the ideal choice for anyone looking to take up card making or scrapbooking as they are made up of an airbrush, compressor, all the necessary paints and stencils as well as some blank cards and instructional booklet.
5. Art & Craft Kits – The selection of art and craft kits are perfect for all your art and graphic airbrushing needs and include an airbrush, compressor, paints, cleaner, stencil and video.
6. Model Making Kits – These are great for all your model making requirements, with each base kit including a different type of airbrush, compressor and selection of paints.
7. Beauty Kits– These are ideal for professional, mobile and home use. The kits come in different varieties which each specialise in a specific type of application such as nail art, body art, airbrush make up and spray tanning.
8. General Hobby Kits – These are suitable for model and mural painting as well as other general airbrushing applications. Because the kits are very basic they are best suited to beginners with a tight budget and include an airbrush and airbrush propellant rather than a compressor.
   

   Beauty Airbrush Kits

GraphicAir is a top UK distributor of airbrushes as well as a wide range of other related products. Visit their website today to view their full range of airbrush kits and other handpicked art and graphic design equipment.

The Safety Importance of Using a Spray Booth

There are various health and safety risks involved when it comes to airbrushing which is why it is important to use a spray booth.

Filtration and Extraction Units

When dealing with potentially hazardous substances on a regular basis, various control measures are legally required to be put into place to ensure the safety of those involved. The booths offer a safe place for airbrushing professionals to work, without causing any damage or harm to the surrounding area.

Aerosol adhesives, airbrushing and spray tanning solution overspray, solder fumes, resins and varnish odours could all potentially pose a threat to the quality of air you breathe. So whether you are airbrushing at home or at work, make sure you are aware of the safety measures involved to prevent any unnecessary accidents from happening.

Spray booths come in various shapes and sizes including filtration and extraction units which can be used for the containment, filtration and extraction of potentially harmful fumes. They are often used in marketing departments, car workshops, graphic art studios and even schools where things like modelling and graphic design classes are taught.

Because this type of equipment is of a combustible nature, it is vital that it is properly maintained. Therefore, in addition to the necessary legal safety measures surrounding spray booths, regular maintenance checks must be done and filters should be changed regularly. If the equipment is kept in a good, clean condition there will be less chance of dust or other particle build up, which will also help lessen the risk of static discharge.

Static discharge can occur during the preparing and cleaning of the booths plastic parts and can, in severe cases, cause burns. For this reason it is important that all metal parts of the booth be properly grounded. As a precaution it is also advised that fire safety equipment be kept nearby. In addition, personal protection equipment such as gloves and masks can be worn to protect both the user and operator from any overspray.

SolarEx

GraphicAir manufacture and supply GraphicAir, SolarEx and TechFlo spray booths, as well as air filtration and extraction units and replacement filters. For all your art, graphic, design and airbrushing requirements visit our website today for a wide choice of top quality equipment.

Create the Ultimate Model with Top Quality Model Airbrushing Supplies

Whether you’re latest project is a Spitfire or the newest sports car to hit the modelling circuit, you will need some top quality airbrush paints to finish it off to the highest specifications.

LifeColor Paints

The LifeColor range is made up of a distinct selection of model airbrushing colours and additives to help you accomplish this. The LifeColor brand is an industry leader when it comes to offering top quality paint perfect for hobby and model brushing and airbrushing on various surfaces.

LifeColor Basic Matt, Gloss and UA Mimetic Paints

These paints come in a wide selection of colours which can all be used on plastic, vinyl, wood, cloth, resin and ceramic surfaces. The surfaces must be clean before the paints can be used on them and applied in thin coats at time. If you will be using the colours for airbrushing purposes, be sure to dilute the paints with water or LifeColor thinner first before airbrushing at a low pressure.

LifeColor Tensocrom Weathering Paints

Tensocrom is made of a solution of pigments in a special medium which can be glazed over any other paint or model to enhance its appearance or create the desired effect. The paints can be mixed or used individually to create various weathering shades. The paint can be used as it is or diluted with water, however it must be almost transparent and airbrushed at a very low pressure to ensure the best possible results.

Tensocrom Weathering Paints

LifeColor Sets & Additives

This product selection includes sets of the various colours and themes for a number of scale models such as wartime military vehicles and tanks, air force, railway and navy sets. Additives such as paint thinner, primer and cleaner are also available as well as a mixer set which includes everything you will need to mix and store your own shades and prepare your colours for airbrushing.

Primer will need to be applied before your first coat of paint to ensure whilst cleaner is used after. To keep your model airbrushing equipment in top condition, clean your airbrush with airbrush cleaner and rinse thoroughly with water.

GraphicAir offers an extensive range of water soluble acrylic LifeColor products ideal for modelling and hobby use. For all your art, graphic, design and model airbrushing supplies, visit our website today.

Learn More about Bambi Air Compressors

Bambi Air Compressors are high quality and high performance systems that can be used in various environments where quiet and sterile air supply solutions are required.

The comprehensive range of systems includes a selection of effective low noise and oil free air compressors to suit everyone’s unique requirements. Here is a brief explanation of the various models available;

Bambi Budget Range

The main benefit of Bambi Budget compressors are their ultra low noise feature which allows them to be placed in the work area without causing any noise disruption. This does not interfere with their high performance capabilities as they can run effectively without with minimal vibrating. The compact design of the compressor also makes it ideal to use in smaller work spaces as well as for all types of airbrushing projects and anywhere else that compressed air is required.

Bambi HT Oil Free Range

The HT Oil Free compressors are quiet to use and benefit from a 100% oil free design. These systems are compact in size, require little maintenance and can be used for oil free applications as well as those that require a portable and strong air supply. The HT Oil Free is available in a 2 pole motor alternative that can deliver a higher output with only a slight increase in noise level.

Bambi VT Oil Free Range

The VT range features the latest Vee Twin pump which makes it one of the quietest oil free compressors on the market. It is also designed with what is called “tilting piston” technology which allows it to provide the highest possible air quality for applications in dentistry’s, laboratories, food packaging factories and other medical environments.

These Bambi compressors are available with the innovative Dry Air technology which can dispense ‘desert dry’ air, whist at the same time dramatically reducing the air temperature. The compressor requires little maintenance and is fitted with a unique start system which enables it to run off a 20 amp single phase power source.

Bambi MD Range

The MD range is ideal for applications that require the perfect combination of high performance and low noise levels. They offer a high quality air supply with an oil lubricated T75 high performance pump that can deliver up to 50% more air than other silent compressors. It is also the only silent compressor that is fitted with piston rings to prevent oil residue from interacting with the air supply. This makes the unit ideal for use in places such as laboratories and dentistry’s where cleanliness and quietness are vital factors.

GraphicAir is a top UK distributor the Bambi Air Compressor Range. Our website contains all the information you will need on these high quality air supply units as well as a wide range of other innovative equipment.

 

What You Need for Railway Model Airbrushing

Railway enthusiasm has remained a popular pastime over the years from trainspotting to railway model making.  And although both are still popular hobbies, train modelling has now taken a more modern approach with a wide range of technologically improved equipment and techniques.

Iwata Airbrushes

If you are interested in train model making or are already a serious modeller looking to update your kit, here is a list of what you will need;

Airbrush and Compressor

There is a wide range of airbrushes and compressors available to make the process of painting your models smooth and easy. There are a number of top brands to choose from, however when it comes to airbrushes specifically Iwata are the best choice for all experience levels as they boast a higher level of quality, performance and control than any other airbrush.

Paint

LifeColor offer a selection of colours perfect for railway and train model airbrushing with their water soluble acrylic colours. LifeColor paints can be used for brushing and airbrushing on plastic, resin, metal, vinyl, wood, cloth and ceramic. Other brands such as Createx AutoAir also offer a durable automotive airbrushing paint solution with their water-based and non-toxic colour technology which can be used to achieve even the most detailed of custom paint jobs.

Model Making Airbrush Kit

Spray Booth

Regardless of the size of your work area there is a booth to suit your specific needs. There is a wide choice of spray booths and filtration cabinets that can be used for protection against even the most harmful odours, fumes and particles from paints, solder and aerosols. Internal or external venting options are available as well as easy filter exchange options that are quick and sample to install.

Accessories

X-Acto model making tools and Daylight lamps such as the Slimline Magnifying Lamp are commonly used in model making. X-Acto tools have been used for over 75 years by modellers to perfect their precision and accurate cutting techniques while Daylight lamps will light up your workspace and direct light to where you need it.

Model Making Airbrush Kits can also be purchased with each basic kit containing an airbrush, paint, thinner and compressor. This will get you everything you will need to get started on your model airbrushing.

GraphicAir offers an extensive range of airbrushes, paints, spray booths and accessories ideal for modelling and hobby use. For all your art, graphic, design and model airbrushing requirements visit our website today for a wide choice of top quality hobby and modelling equipment.

How to Achieve Pinstriping and Automotive Airbrushing Effects

When custom auto modification first became popular, so did the need to add finishing touches and imagery to one’s vehicle. This was all done by hand by skilled artists who could add fine attention to detail to any car with their expert hand.

Now you can also transform your car into something unique with a wide range of automotive airbrushing equipment.  With the correct paints, stencils and tools you will be able to create custom painting graphics of your choice, giving your car, truck, motorcycle or helmet the ultimate finish.

Createx Auto-Air Colors

Auto Airbrush Paints

Createx Auto-Air Colors are the latest breakthrough in water-based, non-toxic automotive coatings technology. They are highly durable and come in a selection of bright colours to achieve the ultimate car art imagery.

Auto Stencils

Airbrush stencils also have a wide range of uses and are perfect for nail and body art, illustrations, cartooning, airbrush tattoos and auto graphics. The stencils are available from various top industry brands including Medea, Artool Flame O Rama and Craig Fraser.

The majority are made from solvent proof polymer material and can be easily cleaned with solvents and bent around irregular surfaces without being damaged. Various visuals are available to choose from including skulls, flames, tribal, shapes and pin up girls.

Auto DVDs

Pinstriping can be described as the application of a thin line of paint used for decoration. This is usually combined with airbrushing to create automotive art and imagery. Custom Auto DVDs can be used to demonstrate and teach various pinstriping and airbrushing techniques as well as offer other helpful advice such as the best paints to use and how to create the perfect line.

Pinstriping

If this is going to be your attempt at car airbrushing, remember to practice your techniques before airbrushing on a real car. This will give you a chance to familiarise yourself with your brush and the other equipment you will be using. Like any canvas, make sure the surface is clean before you start. Then once you start your airbrushing, try to spray as carefully and slowly as you can.

GraphicAir offers an extensive range of airbrush paints and stencils ideal for modelling and hobby use for all experience levels. For all your art, graphic, design and auto airbrushing requirements visit our website today for a wide choice of top quality equipment including Createx Auto-Air Colors and airbrush stencils.

 

 

Learn More about the Different Brands of Airbrushes

If you are currently on the search for an airbrush, there is a wide selection to choose from. The best place to start is to select a brand with a good reputation.

Airbrush

Most brands specialise in different types of airbrushes which will help you make your final choice a lot easier too. Here are 4 popular airbrush brands to choose from;

1. Iwata

   The Iwata brand has a very high reputation and is often referred to as the most trusted name in the industry, with a selection of the latest and most technically evolved designs on the market. The Iwata airbrush range consists of a selection of top quality brushes, each with their own unique specialities and application uses when it comes to airbrushing. For example, Iwata Eclipse brushes are renowned for their versatility and multi-purpose nature, while the Iwata Revolution brush is popular for being fantastic value for money and the fact that it can be used by individuals of all skill levels.

2. Paasche

   Paasche makes use of only the most superior quality materials in the manufacturing of their brushes. All of their products are tried and tested by professional craftsmen to ensure they offer an extremely high standard of finish. One of the latest additions to the Paasche range is the Talon Double Action Airbrush which is designed to offer the ultimate control for fine detail airbrushing.

3. Badger

   Badger brushes are perfect for beginners with a unique selection of both Single Action and Double Action brushes to choose from. They are perfect for model making, nail art, illustrating and ceramic painting.

4. PremiAir

   PremiAir is another popular name in the world of airbrushing and has been around for many years. Their range of airbrushes includes the G35 which can be used by both beginners and professionals on applications such as nail and body art, cake decorating, model painting and much more.

Before you make a final decision on which airbrush is best for you, be sure to take into consideration what you will be using the airbrush for, the level of quality you require and how much you want to spend on it.

GraphicAir is a top UK distributor of these airbrushes as well as a wide range of other related products. Visit our website today to view our entire range of airbrushes and other handpicked art and graphic design equipment.

Maintenance Tips for Spray Booths

Air Filtration Cabinet

Spray booths can be described as a pressure controlled environment used to remove harmful chemicals from the air and improve working conditions by making it safe to breathe. They are often found in places like vehicle body shops and design studios where airbrush spraying and aerosol adhesive applications are common practice.

There is a wide range of booths to choose from, all with their own unique specifications and recommended uses. However, they all generally serve a similar purpose which is to contain, filtrate and extract any harmful aerosol adhesives, airbrush overspray, spray tan solution and solder fumes from the air. They can also be used to contain things like resins, varnish odour, paint overspray and conformal coatings.

The spray booth product range extends to filtration and extraction units, portable work benches as well as replacement filters. Tanning mist extractor units are another type of booth which is used specifically to capture the particles and overspray of the tanning mist solution.

Here are some tips on how to maintain your booth and keep it in good condition;

• It is always a good idea to make sure that you and any employees you may have are fully aware of how to use the booth. They should also be fully informed of all the safety measures involved as well as those required by law. Safety equipment should be worn at all times in the form of dust or gas masks as an added precaution.
• Overspray and dust build-up can reduce the efficiency of your booth. To prevent this from causing problems make sure air filters are changed regularly and that a standard cleaning schedule is put into place to ensure the equipment hygienic and safe to use at all times.
•  Static electric discharge can offer potential problems for booths and those using. This however can easily be prevented by making sure that all metal components in the booth are grounded before any work is done.
• Overtime overspray can quickly accumulate and as it is flammable, spontaneous combustion is always a potential hazard. For this reason fire containment equipment is a practical precaution to have on hand as although booths rarely cause fires, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

GraphicAir is a top UK distributor of spray booths with over 20 years of experience in solving airborne pollutant problems. Visit our website today to view our range of booths and other handpicked art and graphic design equipment.

Tips on How to Choose the Perfect Drawing Board

There are various factors to take into account when it comes to choosing the right drawing board for your needs. Your board is a very personal item and will be chosen according to your unique working style and environment.

Here are some tips on how to choose the perfect drawing board:

Drawing Board

1. Height

   While some people prefer to work at a lower height, others may prefer to work at a lower one. And although the height of many boards can be adjusted, it’s good to choose one that is at a basic level that is comfortable to you.

2. Degree of rotation

   For the purpose of comfort, it is good to buy a board that is capable of a relatively flexible degree of rotation. While some prefer for their board to act as a flat surface, others may work better when their board is set at an angle. This can also help to promote a better posture while you work.

3. Size

   This would depend a lot on the paper size you work on as your table will need to accommodate it. The sizes you can choose from include A0, A1, A2 and A3. It is also important to take into consideration where your table will be placed. If you are going to have to move your table around from time to time, it is best to opt for a smaller one, however if your table will be in a permanent setting and if there is sufficient space, you can go for a larger one.

4. Portable

   If one of your main requirements of the board is that it is mobile, then a portable one is your best option. They are less bulky and easy to move around and perfect for student who needs to take their board with them to class or for architects or designers who need one that they can use at home and at the office.

5. Price

   Price is an important factor to consider with any purchase, specifically one that you will be using for work purposes. There are a number of boards on the market all with their own unique special features, so be sure that you are clear on your requirements to ensure you make the right purchase.

GraphicAir is a top UK distributor of drawing boards as well as a wide range of other related products. Visit our website today to view our range of boards and handpicked art, graphic design and airbrushing equipment.