Air Brushes

About Air Brushes

Air brushes are precision spray tools that use compressed air to atomise and apply paint, ink, or coatings with exceptional control and finesse. Unlike traditional spray guns, air brushes deliver a fine, controlled mist ideal for detailed work, subtle colour gradients, and professional finishing across diverse surfaces. From automotive customisation and model painting to cake decoration and fine art, these versatile tools have become essential for anyone requiring meticulous application and professional-quality results.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks air brush kits from trusted brands including Sealey and Draper, offering everything from beginner-friendly starter sets to professional-grade equipment. The range includes gravity feed and siphon feed systems, complete kits with multiple nozzles and accessories, and mini air brush kits perfect for detailed precision work. Whether you're restoring classic cars, painting scale models, or working on artistic projects, you'll find an air brush solution suited to your needs and skill level.

Applications

• Automotive Customisers and Body Shops: Custom paint work, graphics, blending repairs, and applying clear coats
• Model Makers and Hobbyists: Scale modelling on aircraft, vehicles, figures, and railway scenery requiring precise paint application
• Artists and Illustrators: Fine artists, muralists, and commercial illustrators creating photorealistic effects and smooth gradients
• Cake Decorators: Professional bakers applying food colouring for stunning edible artwork on celebration cakes
• Motorcycle Customisers: Custom bike builders creating unique paint schemes and detailed graphics on tanks and fairings
• Nail Technicians: Beauty professionals offering intricate nail art designs and gradients
• Miniature Painters: Wargaming enthusiasts and collectible figure painters achieving professional-quality finishes
• Restoration Specialists: Furniture restorers and conservation professionals requiring subtle colour matching and fine detail work

Choosing The Right Air Brushes

Feed System: Gravity feed air brushes are generally more versatile for detailed work and easier to clean between colours, whilst siphon feed models excel when working with larger quantities of paint or for extended spraying sessions.

Action Type: Dual action air brushes offer the greatest control for detailed work, allowing independent regulation of air and paint flow. Single action models are simpler to master but provide less precision, making them better suited to broader coverage work.

Nozzle Size: Fine nozzles (0.2-0.3mm) are ideal for intricate detail work, medium nozzles (0.35-0.5mm) offer versatility for general work, whilst larger nozzles (0.6mm+) are better for base coating. Many kits available at MyToolShed.co.uk include multiple nozzles for maximum flexibility.

Kit Contents: Starter kits typically include the air brush, multiple nozzles and needles, cleaning tools, and a carrying case. Comprehensive kits offer better value and ensure you have everything needed to begin work immediately.

Air Supply Compatibility: Most air brushes work with standard workshop compressors operating at 15-50 PSI. Ensure compatibility with your existing compressor, and consider fitting a moisture trap and pressure regulator for consistent performance.

Safety Information

Respiratory Protection: Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate respiratory protection when spraying paints or coatings. Many products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful when inhaled. Comply with COSHH regulations regarding hazardous substances.

Eye and Skin Protection: Wear safety glasses to protect against paint mist, and use appropriate gloves when handling paints and thinners. Some products can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

Compressed Air Safety: Never exceed the manufacturer's recommended operating pressure. Ensure all connections are secure before operation, and never point an air brush at yourself or others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special compressor for air brushing?

Most standard workshop compressors work perfectly well, provided they can deliver 15-50 PSI consistently. Fit a moisture trap and pressure regulator to ensure clean, steady air supply. Dedicated air brush compressors are quieter and more convenient for indoor use but may lack capacity for extended sessions.

What's the difference between gravity feed and siphon feed air brushes?

Gravity feed air brushes have the paint cup mounted on top, using gravity to draw paint into the airstream. They're better for detailed work, require lower air pressure, and are easier to clean. Siphon feed models have the paint container below and are better suited to larger volumes and longer spraying sessions.

How often should I clean my air brush?

Clean your air brush immediately after each use and whenever changing colours. Paint left to dry inside can cause blockages and affect performance. Perform a thorough disassembly and deep clean at the end of each day's work to maintain optimal performance.