Airbrush Pressure Setup and Thinning Paint - Airbrushing for Beginners

Airbrush Pressure Setup and Thinning Paint - Airbrushing for Beginners
In this video I give a recommended air pressure setup for getting started and show you how I prepare any paint ready to use through the airbrush.
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[@DARIVSARCHITECTVS]

After decades believing that airbrushing was rocket science, I used this video to walk me through the process and painted my first item, the interior of a pinnace for a full rigged mode of HMS Sovereign of the Seas. The results were good. Thanks!

[@kelptheseawing2619]

thanks for this! this made me realize that airbrushing isn't super complicated as i thought

[@christopherbell9838]

A great walkthrough with out any bloat, straight to the point and clear. Thanks Andy.

[@TSBS986]

This was incredibly helpful, thanks so much! I have just received my first airbrush and was at a loss at where to start. Great tutorial!

[@marcolai9735]

From discord chat to an edited KZbin video in less than 24h. That’s true community spirit Andy!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Those are the best ones. Get an idea and go do it. Don’t over think it and now I have time to do it it’s great.

[@liviwilde4798]

This is such a wonderful tutorial, I went into this video not even knowing how to start up my air compressor and now I am able to use my airbrush with confidence. Thank you!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Glad it helped!

[@TariTG]

Holy shit, I get it now! Thanks a lot, seeing everything and „experiencing it firsthand“ really helped understand it! 10/10

[@kenlu94]

I love how you just tell the truth that I wants to hear in less than one minute , Thank You👍

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You are so welcome

[@tonyhowell201]

Absolute Rock Star. Some proper grass roots pointers to help get started off. Thank you so much 🥰

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You're very welcome mate. It took me way too long and struggled myself before i really understood some of the basics so hope it helps any other beginners too.

[@davidmcbrayer4461]

Thank you for the amazing video here. I have had my airbrush system for 2 yrs and have just now opened it up. Looking forward to taking your lessons and using them.

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sda141]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Best tutorial I’ve seen. This answered so many of my concerns. 🙏🙏🙏🥰

[@jonathonelgie9788]

Got my first airbrush last week to help with the deadzone challenge, perfect timing!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Fantastic! - Hope this helps.

[@user-oi8uh9fi9w]

The best and clearly explained airbrushing for a novice like me. Thank you. Keep her lit!!

[@jamesgilgannon4164]

Just came across this video. Great tips. Thank you.👍😊

[@robcl3811]

Tremendous video mate. Feel confident to give airbrushing a go now!

[@johnbayliss7124]

Nice video will be using this to try mine

[@miketreehouse]

Fantastic video, really helpful.

[@robertcoble1445]

started using an airbrush today.. great tips cheers mate

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Perfect timing!

[@Daniel-el6xj]

Thxs for the tips just started newbie here

[@edkorsberg6441]

Thank you for the tips. I have not yet started and am trying to learn

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You’re very welcome.

[@kazuyar]

good vid mate cheers

[@stevenbuckley1416]

Thank you very much and appreciated in your presentation you made the concept of it Clear and to the point nice one

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You are welcome! Hope you find my other videos just as helpful.

[@TheDragonWolf83]

Thx for the tips and tricks i have couple of airbrush 1 cheap one and 1 expensive one from the US. I haven't tested them yet because i want to be sure how to use them first. You just got a new follower nice videos keep up the good work.

[@grega4450]

What an amazing video. Thanks

[@stephenbtupacisthebest7844]

Ty for the tips and advice appricaite it I was bit cautious about using it great video

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You’re very welcome. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@krjr1982]

Thanks for the tips.

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You're most welcome!

[@timothystravels]

very helpful, great tutorial. Many thanks!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@user-ue8io4kn7k]

Thanks very much! Just the kind of video I was looking for 🌟

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@allanpilbro8368]

Amazing video great tutorial and just what I need to make my mind up on this airbrush thank you 🎉

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Dean-LongSol]

Thanks bro .. very helpful!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You’re very welcome!

[@leeboy007b]

Thanks mate

[@michaelcerkez3895]

Thanks BJ, coming from a beginner it helps a great deal. Well done with the camera and lighting as well. 73

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Awesome, thank you!

[@zmanpianoman]

When I clean my brush I rinse it out in the sink with hot water. Run the trigger back and forth while hot water is going in pot hole. And I pull the pin back in the body while cleaning. Also use a shot glass to mix and thin paint. When done clean it and you have it forever. No throw away plastic cups.

[@erinsikorski1498]

Very helpful!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@LeeShand]

Perfect. I needed this guide! Thanks.

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Glad it helped!

[@LeeShand]

@@BlackJackLegacy It did. As someone with Parkinson's, this hobby is a game changer for me. After about 10 mins of building a model, my brain is so focused that my tremor stops. It's awesome!!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

@LeeShand that’s amazing! So glad you’ve found something that helps you.

[@sainbrian2]

Nice video. I have a air brush and have had some issues.

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Thanks Brian, hope this might help with some issues you might have had.

[@JJModelMaking]

Great video Andy! I've never used GW paints through my airbrush, tending to stick to the pre thinned Vallejo model air brand paints. Might give it a go now though

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Thanks mate. I do have some Vallejo air paints but I still thin those down too. As long as you get them thin enough you can use anything.

[@daddy617forlife8]

Thanks 👍

[@BlackJackLegacy]

No problem.

[@skyrider4789]

Nice video & hello from a fellow artist in California. I noticed the AT-AT and the LA Rams helmet in the background. I read in your about section that you're in the UK. Hmm.. :)

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Thanks. Yeah I’m in the U.K. but have been a fan of NFL and the Rams since I was a kid.

[@skyrider4789]

@@BlackJackLegacy cool! 🙂👍

[@clendonrobinson6867]

Good video, l wanted to learn to airbrush, so i bought the Master coolrunner ll. I don't know the first thing about airbrushing. Will this work with that brand

[@andrewhartley7325]

Hi as I'm a beginner to airbrush world lol the tips and hints are helpful just one question to ask to cleaning it out with thinners does it matter witch thinner to use so the first step is put thinners into the little pot brush out then tip it out then part fill with water then trigger it out into a tub Many thanks Andy

[@eddiemcgrath8536]

A complete newbie here considering getting the kit for artwork painting, do you recommend any type of compressor and air gun to start with?

[@jerdog8335]

Loved the tutorial on airbrushing. What would you recommend for my first good airbrush? Am using a cheap "Master" with 3 needle sizes, and I know just enough to be "dangerous", but I know it's time for a "good" brush, but no idea what to buy. Have $100 to spend. Help!

[@majortom7186]

You must have done this a week or two before I found the channel 😆

[@razorlightmike4353]

Thanks for the tips fella. I will be watching all your tips and tricks vids. I’m a fellow Geordie I am just getting into air brushing. Gonna have a crack at it this weekend using a new top end airbrush with a value\ entry level compressor. Long story short the included airbrush bought with compressor was naff and very poor quality (mixed reviews as no quality production checks on airbrush) so I have went all out on infinity cr airbrush and gonna try it with the compressor I bought- the fengda fd 186k compressor. Long term would you recommend getting a compressor to match the airbrush or is the airbrush more important? Thanks!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

As long as the compressor provides a good air flow that you can regulate you’ll be fine. The airbrush is really the biggest factor. Some cheap ones can be great and some expensive ones can be tough for beginners but I think you’ll do well with your Infinity CR. Just thin down your paint more than you think and test it on something that’s not an expensive mini. It’s easier to add paint to a mixture that’s too thin than to thin down a thick mixture that clogs up your airbrush. Enjoy it mate!

[@szymonjasinski1350]

Thanks for a great video. Can you tell what compressor you using? Best regards!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

The compressor is an AS186 compressor with tank. They’re the pretty standard ones you see on Amazon and eBay.

[@billysayers7941]

I've just started out air brushing on my scale models I have problem thinning my paints I used acrylic and enamel paints is it best to uses the thinner for that paint. And I've hear thing about the 50 50 things is the 50 50 thing a good way to do it. I'm not sure what 50 50 is in drops. Can you please advise me on this. Thanks. From bill

[@andybaker2132]

Hiya I'm new to airbrush art can you tell me if I can use of the shelf varnish from local DIY store and thin it with thinners!? Thanks in advance Regards Andy

[@RussellGuldin]

Perhaps you and the group could help me with a question. What is more important, a good airbrush or a good compressor? I want to step up my game from my starter setup but I don't know where to invest first. Thanks for your help and cheers on the channel!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

A compressor with a storage tank will give you consistent airflow and theyre all pretty much the same whereas a good airbrush can tranform hw you use it. I'd go for the better compressor first as you'll always use it and as you upgrade your airbrush later you'll still use that compressor.

[@supergoldfish2010]

Could you possible do a small video or add on I am wondering about my pump and there are no videos about a pump, there is a clear glass thing on mine and I am a beginner that was given this pump. Also awesome videos thank you

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Hey super goldfish2010. Sure, I can do that. They’re called a water trap or a moisture trap and they take the moisture from the air. Some don’t have them but they’re a must really.

[@MHiFacesTheWorld]

This is so helpful! Thanks! I was just gifted some airbrushes and a mini compressor with paints and such… I had no clue where to begin!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Glad to be able to help.

[@Redrexgames]

Great video Andy! 👍 Quick question... Do you bother using a spray booth? Or do you think they aren’t really required?

[@BlackJackLegacy]

I so use one and whilst they’re not 100% needed I do find that it pulls all the overspray away and keeps the room clean and keeps fumes down too so wouldn’t be without it now. I did start with just a cardboard box however to catch the overspray.

[@Redrexgames]

@@BlackJackLegacy Sounds like it would be well worth the investment, thank you for replying! I (and I’m sure others) would love to see another video added to your airbrush series RE your spray booth setup.

[@SuperZombieOne]

can you use latex paint in it too? and then what thinner?

[@resinart2098]

could i use acetone or Xylene to thin it?

[@theeightbitdad]

When setting the PSI on the compressor do you do it while you are running air through the brush or not running air through?

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Do it while running air through the brush or it drops below where you set it 👍🏼

[@tomfowler4501]

Just bought airbrush how do we know what size needle to use, the one I have comes with 4 ?

[@m.032]

How do you clean the moisture trap when it has water

[@garydeandeery]

I just tried to mix some old paint 50/50 with solvent and found it would not mix I could see the thinner sitting on top of the paint ?? The paint was old just wanted to use it up My first mix I did blue and mixed it 50/50 with acetone and that was ok Was told use acetone to mix paint and use solvent to clean the gun

[@Stonefxwalls]

I bought a cheap Clarke airbrush and 5cfm compressor. Can't get any spray through it at all. Air yes, just no stain.

[@davidmason2067]

What paint do I use to airbrush motobike parts

[@snatchbloock]

I'm an artist but never used an airbrush. I have yet to purchase my equipment but I own a 5 gallon shop compressor with adjustable pressure. Is a 5 gallon compressor too much for air brushing. Thanks

[@mattwebster1602]

hi. i got given a airbrush and compressor recently. i cant draw or anything like that. how/what would be best to start airbrushing?

[@BlackJackLegacy]

It really depends upon what you want to use it for. If it’s for models etc then start with them but if you want to create art you can get some amazing stencils which are great for beginners

[@neon3d602]

umm im looking at buying a cheap car pump and was wondering if it would work with an air brush ????????

[@user-lz7ly4er8v]

Hello, I have an airbrush Iwata and the problem is when I want to make a fine line I cannot get the color out and when I press the trigger more a lot of color comes out, I do not use special colors for airbrushes, just use oil colors and dilute them with petrol, please help me, thanks

[@BlackJackLegacy]

I’d suggest thinning the paint more. It sounds as though the paint is too thick to come out when the needle is gently pulled back but then comes out fast when pulled back further. Also check your pressure isn’t too high too.

[@scottslothower6840]

What ratio do you try to use to thin your paints?

[@BlackJackLegacy]

It really depends on the paint brands and types. I just play it by ear.

[@stevenfrei4390]

Not sure if you done this but I stopped air brushing 25 years ago due to lack of knowing about paints , water base lacquer , acrylic

[@ArnolddeGans]

Can you use metallic paints with a airbrush ?

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Yes you can. I’ve used silver over a blue base which have a very Robocop metallic effect.

[@raylord6246]

What airbrush are you using? With the removable cup!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

It’s a Harder & Steenbeck Cult of Paint Evolution

[@raylord6246]

@@BlackJackLegacy thanks!

[@BlackJackLegacy]

No problem.

[@SirTenoch]

I have the opposite problem. When I pull back the needle after spraying, there is a bit of wet pain left on the tip, then when you spray again there is some splatter because of the drop of paint left on the tip. Needle and nozzle are clear and fine, is just that little drop of fresh paint left on the tip. Any ideas please???

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Try making sure the needle is fully pushed forward as it should seal in the nozzle. If it’s not then you’ll get that slight leak which causes that issue.

[@SirTenoch]

@@BlackJackLegacy thank you so much for your answer. Should I buy a new needle in case nothing else works?? Very much appreciated your help. Thanks again.

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You’re very welcome - I’d just make double sure it’s clean (nozzles are notorious for seeming clean but aren’t) and make sure you push the needle right forward and then try with water. You may need a new needle or nozzle but honestly if it seems to work well other than that it’s probably residual paint in the nozzle.

[@justzalo5103]

Where do I find the black setter peace

[@BlackJackLegacy]

It exactly sure what you mean - if you mean the pressure regulator valve you should be able to see it easily if it has one.

[@A.Mgoat431]

Ok I just got a airbrush ,now prior to using the airbrush do I have to thin the paint every time I use my airbrush or does it depend on the kind of paint I use .I have some acrylic paints and I heard acrylic paints dry fast.So, I would need to turn up the air on my air compresser to get paint out faster so it don't dry inside my gun and it will start sputtering. I am exited to use my airbrush but I am so scared too because there is so much to learn too .With the upkeep and I don't want to take it apart wrong and mess it up and there so much right and wrong things to do that can determine the outcome of how your gun will work and how the quality of the finished product will be .

[@BlackJackLegacy]

First off - relax! It’s meant to be fun! Secondly the amount you need to thin depends on your paint. Some are designed for airbrushing and some are designed to paint with a brush and they’ll need thinning more. Just try it - thin more than you think and work up by adding more paint as it’s less likely to block up. Spray onto plastic spoons as a test so you don’t ruin any models. Once you get the hang it’s easy but it’s a lot to worry about when being new. The worst that happens is it blocks and you have to clean it so just try it on something you’re not worried about 👍🏼

[@A.Mgoat431]

@@BlackJackLegacy thank you will do !

[@stuartharrison4421]

Im having spray problems with my 2 fenga guns ive cleaned them stripped them down checked my air thinned my paints.The air comes out but the paint wont flow thru...HELP!!!! PLS

[@BlackJackLegacy]

If the paint isn’t coming out then it’s normally a blockage in the small nozzle. Even when you think you’ve cleaned it (and sometimes because cleaning it dislodges bits of dried paint) some can get stuck in the nozzle. Double check this as if no paints coming through generally that’s the issue.

[@stuartharrison4421]

Bang on all sorted thanks very much.right wheres the cat.

[@rickmoreno6858]

I Would NOT use a qtip for cleaning the needle, Use a Brush wit h thinner on it. You'll end up bending the needle.

[@1jasup]

I'm a total klutz with an airbrush

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Aren’t we all at the start!

[@9965paul]

Disassemble the bloody thing so we can see where the paint ends up inside the airbrush.

[@BlackJackLegacy]

You can’t see where the paint ends up by disassembling it as the brush is largely sealed. I made a separate video on stripping down the airbrush to clean it and troubleshooting problems.

[@GrahamWalters]

Good video, but a dislike for using the 'A' word, your local model shop needs you and most owners have a wealth of knowledge. Another tip, don't paint in a warm room

[@BlackJackLegacy]

Fair enough - except around me there are no model shops to support and the ones that used to be there never sold airbrushes - only Airfix kits and enamel paints. If you’re lucky enough to have one support it however I don’t have one.

[@GrahamWalters]

@@BlackJackLegacy Fair enough mate, I'm a model shop owner, I will get in anything a customer wants, including airbrushes and compressors, normally next day too !

[@GrahamWalters]

@@BlackJackLegacy To be honest, Airfix are my poorest seller, Tamiya, Meng and RFM are far better kits

[@BlackJackLegacy]

And that’s why you’re still in business mate and I’m sure your customers appreciate what you do. Sadly I can’t say that every model or hobby shop is the same and my experience over the last few years has been of very poor customer service with no real reason to support them. Thankfully there are still a few and they should be supported.

[@GrahamWalters]

@@BlackJackLegacy I've built up the business from nothing for five years, I still answer messages and the phone on Sundays and up until 9pm at night. I listen to my customers and they reward me by coming back. If there's a kit for it, and it's available I will do my utmost to get it, and still discount it !!

[@allthingshorrorrelated]

looks like a lot of messing around. cleaning the nozzle every five minutes.

[@patriqcnewman275]

That airbrush look bad