Airbrushing with acrylics

Depends on the brand. More info please!

The paints are tamyia and my airbrush is a paasche. I use an air compressor, I have been using enamal thinner and it seems to work alright. But it seems to me there should be an easier way

Mark

Hi MArk.

You've been using enamel thinner with Tamiya acrylics? No wonder you're having problems. They are fundamentally different and will not mix. Stirred (or shaken) vigorously enough, you may end up with an emulsified mix which may look uniform, but will settle out, given time, or you may end up with a sticky lump of goo which won't mix at all.

For Tamiya acrylics, in order of preference,

• Tamiya X-20A thinner
• Isopropyl alcohol
• denatured alcohol

If using either of the alcohol options, a little acrylic retarder may be beneficial.

Personally I wouldn't recommend water or Windex to thin Tamiya acrylic paints, though they are suitable for cleaning up afterwards.

Boy do I feel retarded. Thank you so much for the information. I will go by the local CVS or Wallgreens and pick up a couple bottles of alcohol and repaint my tank. As you can tell I am not only a retard but I am a novice but i have heart and I am determined to become as good as you guys at this. Thanks again for your time and advice.

Mark

Athens Georgia

Hi Mark,

No problem with the questions Mark, you won't know unless you ask.

Generally I find it best to keep it simple. These options work and I think most of us who use Tamiya axrylics will use one or another of the three I have listed. You will find some who will say that lacquer thinner will work too, and indeed Tamiya does make a "lacquer" thinner which some say they have used with Tamiya acrylics. Water will work with Tamiya to an extent, but it's not ideal and too much water will cause loss of adhesion and beading and other undesirable effects.

Not all acrylic paints are made equal, and thinners which work with some (eg. alcohol with Tamiya) won't work with others (not compatible with Vallejo).

I am thinning my paint with Tamiya's own X20A Thinner. Works good for me!

 Finescale Modeler has several articles on acrylics. They have this special issue that have a good article on acrylics as well as other articles for us beginners!:

http://www.kalmbachstore.com/fs1070501.html

 //Tommie