Airbrushing is now very common and is really on a boom. It employs the use of airbrushes which can be used to spray the paints through the nozzle. Since it requires the use of air pressure, therefore, an air compressor is needed. With multiple questions popping in your head about airbrushing, the most probable one will be’ can you use any air compressor for airbrushing?’. Well, we are here to provide you with a detailed answer which will assist you in figuring out what you really require. 

Since it is highly likely that you would have an air compressor with you, therefore you might want to use it. This will be great in saving the additional cost you spend on a specific air compressor. The good news is that you can actually use any regular air compressor for airbrushing. However, there are a few things that you should consider before using any air compressor for airbrushing. Dive in to find out! 

How To Use Any Air Compressor for Airbrushing? 

Yes, one can use any air compressor for airbrushing. Any regular air compressor would do the job. However, there are certain things that you should have to do before using your air compressor for airbrushing for effective action and smooth working. Below, we have explained them all in detail so you don’t have to worry. Dive in! 

1. The normal air pressure that a regular air compressor can raise ranges between 100 psi to 150 psi. The limit can be extended based on the size, quality and specifications of the air compressor. The application of airbrushing requires only 15 psi with a tolerance of positive and negative 5. If you are a certified, experienced user, and know the thing well, you would work best with 20 psi. However, if you are new to this, you should stick to low air pressure. If you have to work on minute details, then you should set the psi to 10. Using high air pressure will ensure instant drying as the paint will be subjected to fogginess. To have the best and guaranteed results, you would require a pressure reducer. This will assist you with setting the right pressure. 
2. Another crucial thing that should be considered at all costs is the water droplets prevalent in the compressor at all times. The water gets suspended in the air which can result in issues. Therefore, the water has to be removed. To do that, you need a moisture trap that aids in eliminating all the moisture. For perfect airbrushing, you need water to convert into the mist and get mixed with oil mist. Both of these then have to form a homogenous mixture with the paint. Be very careful about the position of the moisture trap. It should always be placed far away from the air compressor’s output valve. The air passes through the lines at increased temperatures while absorbing moisture. This moisture is in the form of vapors which cool down as soon as the air is cooled. Therefore, the trap is to be placed far from the compressor and close to the airbrush equipment for the most effective results. 
3. Air compressors come in all sizes and ranges. There is a possibility that you have a large air compressor. On the other hand, you can have a compact one. Well, if you have a smaller unit, that usually doesn’t come with a tank. In that case, you have to purchase an adequate size tank. Otherwise, you will have to experience unbearable noise. Therefore, in order to eliminate that noise, it is advised to get a tank. The application of airbrushing requires minimal air. Therefore, you are required to fill the tank once and have a lovely time airbrushing with no intolerable noise. 
4. Lastly, you are required to get yourself an adapter. This is to make the connection between the hose and the airbrush. 

This is all that you are required to do to make your regular air compressor perfect for airbrushing. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What PSI should I use for airbrushing?

In order to complete the action of airbrushing smoothly, you need to set the pressure rating to 30 psi. 

What kind of compressor do I need for airbrushing?

There are a lot of air compressors that you can use for airbrushing. However, the one that suits this application the best is known as a piston compressor. 

Do airbrushes need a special compressor?

Yes, airbrushes do require a special compressor. They need to be integrated with a great pressure rating to ensure a 1/6th horsepower rating at the output.