For satisfactory airbrushing, you will require a source of clean, dry air, at constant pressure. Most taxidermists and fish carvers use a tank mounted air compressor for this purpose.

The air compressor I have used for more than ten years, is a Craftsman 1.5 HP 12gal. unit. It is located in another room due to the noise level. A compressor with a 2-3 gal. tank is quite satisfactory, and you will find more uses for it besides just airbrushing.

If noise may be a problem, then consider purchasing one of the small compressors available from one of the airbrush companies. These units are quiet and are only suitable for airbrushing. I have read some negative comments about these units, so ensure the one you purchase can meet your needs. They have various air pressure ratings, and some have an automatic shut-off feature when not in use, and back on when resuming airbrushing.

You should have a separate regulator located close to your work area, not only to maintain stable air pressure to your airbrush, but to change air pressure throughout the spraying operations as required. I use a Paasche R-75 (similar to the Aztek model) which is a combination air regulator and moisture trap.

Moisture traps also collect other impurities in the air supply. Both Badger and Paasche have in-line moisture traps available. There is a Grex Micro Air Control Valve available and can be attached to the air inlet of your airbrush. It provides precise control of airflow for your airbrush right at your fingertips. Moisture may be created by the flow of hot air cooling in the storage tank and hose, and moisture may be a problem in more humid climates.

To connect my air compressor to the Paasche R-75, I use a 25 ft. length of industrial air hose, 3/8 in.inside diameter.You can see it in the air regulator picture.

To connect the airbrush to the R-75, I have a 10 ft. Straight Shot airbrush hose, made of polyurethane material and is twice as strong and 1/3 the weight of conventional braided air hoses. Notice the in-line moisture trap on the red braided hose.

Quick change air hose couplers are used to facilitate connecting and disconnecting.

Atomized mediums can often stay suspended in the air after spraying and because the droplets are so small, they can be inhaled into the lungs. Both Badger and Paasche sell a double cartridge respirator, which will provide protection against paint mist and vapors.

On the Badger brand ready to use paint label, it states,"Use adequate ventilation when airbrushing. A dust respirator mask is recommended when spraying." On the Golden brand airbrush paint label it states,"Warning: This product contains a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer. Always protect yourself against known and potentially unknown chronic hazards of this and other chemical products by keeping them out of your body. Do this by avoiding ingestion, excessive skin contact, and inhalation of spraying mists, sanding mists and concentrated vapors".

It is wise to strain your paint, especially if you have had it for awhile. I use a small Coleman funnel which has a fine screen, but you can also use a piece of nylon stocking or spray gun filter.

An airbrush holder is a must when you want to set your airbrush down. This will not only prevent the airbrush from falling onto the floor and become damaged, but will prevent the spilling of paint. The airbrush holder can be easily made by yourself .

Some of the other items I use are: 2 oz. paint storage containers; 1 oz. plastic disposable cups to mix paint in; wash bottles to clean the airbrush; container to spray into when cleaning the airbrush; stirring sticks; disposable foam plates; SuperLube; artist brush to clean tip; paper towelling; heavy paper to test spray; spare needle and nozzle, etc.