top of page

Airbrush Paint Guide & Tips

​

ModelersDP acrylic airbrush paints are designed for ease of use while delivering smooth, professional results with exceptional detail. Whether you're applying a solid finish or subtle weathering, these paints offer the control and flexibility needed for high-quality model work.

​

Getting Started

​

  • These paints spray well between 10–60 PSI

  • A good starting point is 20–25 PSI

  • Lower pressure = finer detail

  • Higher pressure = faster coverage

For best results, always strain your paint before use to prevent clogs or splatter.

​

Mixing Your Paint

​

  • Paint separation is normal—always mix thoroughly before use

  • Shake well, then stir if needed using a mixing stick or tool

  • Bottles are designed with extra space for easy mixing

  • If paint has been sitting:

    • Add a few drops of isopropyl alcohol to help blend

  • Mix at a moderate speed:

    • Avoid creating bubbles

    • Prevent overflow

  • Strain paint after mixing for best performance

  • Only thin if needed:

    • Use isopropyl alcohol

    • Adjust gradually

​

Choosing Your Airbrush

​

  • Dual-action airbrushes offer the best control

  • Gravity-fed airbrushes are ideal for detail work

  • Siphon-fed airbrushes work well for larger coverage

  • Use:

    • Fine/medium needle → most modeling work

    • Larger needle → broad coverage

  • Keep your airbrush clean for consistent results

​

Spray Technique

​

  • Always keep the airbrush moving

  • Start spraying before the model, release after passing over it

  • Apply paint in light, controlled passes

  • Do NOT try to cover in one coat

  • Build up coverage gradually

  • Watch for a slight sheen:

    • Once you see it, stop

    • Let it dry before the next pass

​

Building a Smooth Finish

​

  • Start with a light mist coat to create surface grip

  • Add multiple thin layers for full coverage

  • The paint may look slightly textured when wet

  • It will dry to a smooth, even finish

  • The paint is self-leveling:

    • Minor imperfections often settle as it dries

​

Air Pressure & Distance Control

​

  • Lower pressure (10–20 PSI):

    • Fine detail

    • Close work

  • Medium pressure (20–30 PSI):

    • General use

  • Higher pressure (30–60 PSI):

    • Faster coverage

    • Wider spray

  • Distance matters:

    • Closer = tighter line

    • Farther = wider pattern

Adjust pressure and distance together for best results.

​

Avoiding Common Problems

​

  • Runs → Too much paint in one area

  • Grainy finish → Paint drying before hitting surface

  • Splatter → Unstrained or poorly mixed paint

  • Clogs → Dried paint or debris

Solution: lighter coats, proper mixing, clean equipment.

​

Fixing Mistakes

​

  • While paint is still tacky:

    • Spray with an ammonia-based cleaner

    • Rinse with water (use a container to catch parts)

  • Let dry completely before repainting

​

Weathering Techniques

​

  • Thin paint heavily:

    • 5–10% paint / 90–95% alcohol

  • Apply in very light layers

  • Build effects gradually

  • Use lower pressure for control and detail

  • Work in layers:

    • Dark tones first

    • Light highlights last

  • Always test on scrap before applying to your model

​

Advanced Mixing (Airbrush Cup)

​

  • Paint can be mixed directly in the airbrush

  • Add paint, then thinner

  • Use backflow mixing:

    • Cover nozzle

    • Lightly spray and pull back trigger

  • Mix gently to avoid bubbling

​

Cleanup & Maintenance

​

  • Clean airbrush immediately after use

  • Flush between colors

  • Periodically:

    • Disassemble

    • Deep clean

Proper maintenance ensures consistent performance and longer tool life.

​

Final Thoughts

​

Great results come from control, consistency, and patience. These paints are designed to be forgiving and easy to work with, allowing you to build up smooth finishes or realistic weathering effects with confidence.

Take your time, apply light coats, and let the paint do the work.

​

​

​

​

​

bottom of page