For decades now, I've used an old "Air Force" 1/5 hp artist air compressor for airbrushing acrylic paint onto my canvases. It, like me, is feeling its age. So now I'm shopping for new. One thing I'm clear on is that when I'm spraying a graduated background on a larger canvas, the pressure runs out before I reach the end of my stroke. I think I need to step up. I don't even think Air Force is a brand any more, so I can't find something to compare it to. Any suggestions?
I've considered Home Depot compressors, but time after time, it seems that noise is an issue, and I don't want to spend my time building sound baffle boxes or adding the slew of add-ons necessary for airbrushing. Nor do I want to spend a fortune on an "artist's" airbrush compressor which seems to automatically send the price soaring for these quieter models. I can't imagine that I can't find something that's just right for under $150. Am I naive?
I've considered Home Depot compressors, but time after time, it seems that noise is an issue, and I don't want to spend my time building sound baffle boxes or adding the slew of add-ons necessary for airbrushing. Nor do I want to spend a fortune on an "artist's" airbrush compressor which seems to automatically send the price soaring for these quieter models. I can't imagine that I can't find something that's just right for under $150. Am I naive?
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Atlanta
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Build your own compressor
Thu, June 26, 2008 - 9:32 PMWell, if you want to get a large silent or storage compressor they are generally pretty pricey.
Depending on how handy you are, you can make your own storage compressor from an old refrigerator compressor and a fire extinguisher for under $100. My old airbrush instructor has directions on how you can do this on his website, although it requires a little bit of welding.
www.doctorairbrush.com/compressor.pdf
