Airbrushing

Those who may be interested in experimenting with airbrushing probably won't wish to spend too much money initially however the thinking behind tool investment over a lifetime is sound.

Appreciating that low cost (low pressure?) systems clog up and may not perform as well as the top end kits would those in the know have any ideas on good starter sets?

And where would paint and transfers be sourced from?

There is Fox and another company whose name I cannot remember right now (they probably advertise in the mags) that supply transfers but how about paint?

And what sort of paint volumes are offered/required and at what sort of prices?

Its these practical questions and answers that make entry into the world of airbrushing relatively straightforward. I've got one or two old and very playworn Dublo locos and other bits and pieces that I would like to renovate and have been thinking about this airbrushing thing for a long time.

I have up until now been using Halfords spray paints on car models however railway colours are not the same as those used by Ford and Vauxhall or in those TV house makeover programmes. Although there may be some who would love to have a TV house makeover with a BR blue and yellow theme using Mk1 Coach seats for TV viewing in the lounge!

Happy modelling
Gary

There is an airbrush expert at Warley MRC who spent a good hour with me last night providing tips and pointers. He recommended a twin action gravity/suction Aztec airbrushing set for about £99 which comes with 6 heads and several reservoir sizes and with suggestions of where these can be purchased in the local area. He said to mention his name and Warley MRC and I might get good discounts!

He claims that these are the easiest of airbrushes to clean as the nozzle is a screw fit and due to its mode of operation only the nozzle (not the jet) has to be cleaned which is a dip in thinners so dead easy. A reasonably quiet compressor with an air chamber to smooth out airflow giving about 30-50psi might be another £70 but again well worth it apparently.

He said to forget Revell and other low cost hobby brushes as you would quickly loose interest in airbrushing as a result of the relatively cumbersome design and prolonged cleaning required.

And he said the only way of getting Hornby like paintjobs is to use an airbrush. There is absolutely no other way in his opinion. For masking best to use selotape. Standard masking tape is too thick and leaves an edge. Take the "stick" off the tape by taping it to and pulling it off cotton material a few times.

Wifey is talking about birthday presents!

However could she mean a role of selotape?

Happy modelling
Gary