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.