air brush?

As I've been looking at this site I notice a lot of you use air brushes. I've never used an air brush. The work done with them looks excellent. I've been thinking about getting one since this costume has become more than a halloween thing. It's starting to become an obsession. So anyway, what kind of airbrush would you recommend for a beginner? I'm willing to spend a decent amout on this because I can use an air brush on illustrations if I practice enough with it. I know absolutely nothing about air brushes other than I'll need to get an air compressor. I didn't want to just go into the store and buy a random kit. What brands are good, and what brands have people had problems with? How big of an air compressor will I need? Any advice would help? Also, does anybody know of any good books on techniques?

I use a Paasche VL-SET or VLS-SET Double Action Airbrush Set. I really like it. But it is my first airbrush, so I can't compare it to any others. You can find more info at www.paascheairbrush.com.

I used to paint with a Paasche but moved on to an Iwata HP-C and I have been able to do much better work on all my paintjobs!

Here is a link to a great seller with cheaper prices than other retailers:

http://www.dixieart.com/IwataHB_C_BC1_BC2.html

I have a Paasche and that thing sucks!!!!!!!! If you buy it make sure you buy some of that white tape stuff that you put on threads so you can get a good air seal.

You are referring to Plumber's Tape, works great for a nice airtight seal.

Originally Posted by shortimer52

I have a Paasche and that thing sucks!!!!!!!! If you buy it make sure you buy some of that white tape stuff that you put on threads so you can get a good air seal.

I have a blue point from snap-on tools and I guess they are unavailable, becuase they arte very close to the old style badger airbrushes which where very good. Its about 14 years old.

I cant find anything about it

The markings are so feint the camra didnt get it.

Originally Posted by cal196

I have a blue point from snap-on tools and I guess they are unavailable, becuase they arte very close to the old style badger airbrushes which where very good. Its about 14 years old.

I cant find anything about it

The markings are so feint the camra didnt get it.

My Badger 150 looks just like that.
Mine is 12-14 years old.
I love the air brush although I havn't used it in years.
Lynn

thanks for all the info everybody. I'll check these out.

Originally Posted by propsculptor

You are referring to Plumber's Tape, works great for a nice airtight seal.

Thats what I was talking about,,

Just go to michaels and get an O-ring seal kit for airbrushes, they have all different sizes in the same kit.

What size air compressor will I need? How much PSI pressure?

/vote Iwata for airbrush...I love mine

For a compressor, you need one that does at least 20psi I believe.

I use an Iwata HP-C too. I'm very happy with it. The only thing I hate about airbrushing is the cleaning afterward. That kind of sucks. Once you get past that though you'll wonder how you ever painted without it.

I'd recommend getting a compressor with a decent sized tank if you can. It will make a world of difference in your work cycle. Personally I just use a cylinder of compressed CO2. Not those little cylinders but a real welding cylinder. I've had it for over a year and it is still going strong.

I vote for the Badger IL. I have two and my first one is 20 yrs old and still works like a charm!

Don't get the small airbrush compressors, they don't have a storage tank and you won't get a consistent air flow. Buy a compressor that has a storage tank. It's well sorth the price if you are going to do a lot of work.

Geo

The haardware store around the corner from ny house has an air compressor with two dual 5 gallon tanks and goes up to 120 psi on clearance for $95. Would that be too big?

You can never have too big of air tanks!!!

Yeah what Geo said. Buy as much as you can afford. You might want to put a moisture trap in there too.

Does anyone use a gravity feed brush? I have been looking at Airbrush City and they look like decent brushes for the price.

Never heard of them. I would stick with a well known brand as parts will be easier to find. You'll pay a bit more but you get what you pay for.

As far brushes, I use badger and Iwata. I've been very happy with these brands although I don't recall the model numbers I use. Like every body is saying, get a "real" compressor with good sized tanks.

Another place you may want to try out as far as purchasing an airbrush is Dixiart. They have really good prices and I know alot of people that do T-Shirt Airbrushing and such that always use them for their supplies.



http://www.dixieart.com/

Man I got really good at "precision spray painting" too, if there is such a thing... Looks like I better get an airbrush starter kit... :P