Airbrush

Air Quick Tips:  Accessories for the Airbrush

Some airbrushes today come with pre-set adjustable handles.  These are also available separately to update older airbrushes that came with conventional handles.  Each individual airbrush manufacturer has a specific upgraded handle to fit their airbrushes exclusively.  Why use a pre-set handle?  For one, it is great for adjusting the airbrush to that perfect spray width desired by the artist.  And it limits the amount of needle travel (how far back the trigger can be pulled), which gives more control of the airbrush.  For beginning students, this allows them to set the airbrush so the dual-action brush will work similar to the single-action brush.  The adjustment screw at the back of the handle is usually finely threaded so that the airbrusher can have precise fine-tuned control.

Depending on the manufacturer, there are a variety of different air caps available for different effects.  One from Iwata-Medea is called the crown cap.  Because of its shorter length, it allows for finer detail work while still protecting the needle tip; and because of its construction, it decreases the paint buildup on the airbrush needle and inside the nozzle cap, which helps to eliminate spitting.

And, to help the inner workings of the airbrush move smoothly, Medea Super Lube—a natural and non-toxic lubricant--can be used on all moving parts of the airbrush—the main lever, the needle packing and the valve piston packing.  It can also be applied to the needle cap and along the needle itself to enhance paint flow and to prevent paint from drying on the tip.

A must for any airbrush user is the airbrush holder.  And this has come a long way from the simple holders of yesteryear.  Iwata’s, made of high impact-resistant plastic and nickel-plated brass, can accommodate two airbrushes.  The holder easily attaches to the work station no matter if it’s an easel, drafting table or table top.  Each comes with a bracket that will accommodate most air filters and regulators so that air adjustments are quickly accomplished and always within reach.

See your retailer and visit www.iwata-medea.com.

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Copyright ARTtalk Vol. 17 No. 10 — August 2007