Getting into air brushing.

**zeocen** · 21st January 2008, 22:46

Sorry if this is the wrong forum, feel free to move to the appropriate one if this isn't the right one.

So I've been interested in airbrushing for quite a while and since I'm currently 'out of action' with a good right arm, I figure this would be a good time to fill the void of boredom I'm currently feeling right now. I was just wondering a few things...

Firstly, where the hell do I start? In the long run, airbrushing and detailing on a motorcycle would be my goal/dream - but for now, just on a piece of cardboard or whatever will suffice. The idea is to progress onto motorcycle detailing later in.. er... 2023? So I was thinking, what would I need? How much would it cost?

I'm not a great artist by any means but I've got a teeny bit of artisticallamabobby background but actually learning properly would be great too, any ideas on where to start on that front is? If anyone, even people who have only dabbled in it, has any information on it I would be very grateful !

Thanks!

love zeo.

**DingoZ** · 21st January 2008, 23:25

If you visit any hobby shop, they should be able to put you in the right direction as to what you need to start off with. (also youtube airbrush, and there are heaps of tutorials out there which include what you need to start with)

There are beginner kits out there, which include the gun, tools, hoses, adapters, and pots(for the paint).

A visit to a store like repco, or supercheap might be in order as they have on occassions had in stock the complete airbrushing kits, including compressor and attachments, and a basic beginners gun...(They vary as you get better).

One way of learning is to trace out a design (picture ) onto a white t shirt, and then basically fill it in, as if you were colouring it in. This way you get to practice lines, and shading, etc..And you get a feel for how far away the gun needs to be for the type of line or shade you are trying to achieve. Also the pressure you have the compressor set at varies depending on what kind of density of paint you want to come through.... Then when you are more practiced you will find yourself trying the same drawings and different ones freehand....

I used to buy elcheapo packs of white tshirts - for next to nothing and practice on every available inch of the shirt. Just got to make sure that the shirt is either pinned tight over a solid piece of wood or other such backing material...

I don't do any of this anymore, (and never claimed to be anything flash at it either), but let me know if I can be of any more help

Cheers

**hellnback** · 22nd January 2008, 07:55

Here ya go mate. Looks like an excellent course.

**Hoon** · 22nd January 2008, 09:28

Get a dual action airbrush from a hobby shop - probably get a better deal off ebay.

You'll need a compressor too. There are lots of tutorials on the web. Start off practicing with indian ink (cheaper and cleaner) on an A2 sketch pad.

It takes a lot of practice, patience and dedication so don't expect to be painting flaming skulls for a while.

**Conquiztador** · 22nd January 2008, 17:40

Here, look at this thread:

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/sh...38#post1168438

By following the links you will find out how to contact Terry. He would probably be the best of the Kiwi ones. Lives in USA now and doing well.

A very nice and down to earth guy. He will give you some insights and ideas if you ask nicely.

Good Luck.

**zeocen** · 22nd January 2008, 19:05

Hey thanks for that man! And thanks everyone else for the helpful info!

I might have to con some certain KB'ers with ginger beer and fattening foods to take me to have a look at some air compressors and other thingymabobs.
I do realise this isn't going to be an instant gratification thing, but I do like painting and just the thought of combining my two passions makes me squeam with delight.