I long resisted using an airbrush for body painting, temporary tattoos and T-shirt/tote bag creations. Why? Carrying around a large/heavy compressor and regularly having to clean out blocked airguns for a start. However - I have now (at last!) taken up this challenging artistic technology thanks to client demand. At parties and festivals my colleagues and I can swiftly write freehand 'names' or 'stencil' images. Designs can also be pre-done before the event. This creative service is massive in the States so I thought it was about time to offer it in the UK...
Small compressors are fine for small jobs - but if working solid for several hours - get a big one! To quickly change multiple colours you really need several airguns ('double action' Iwatas are recommended) with special 'quick-release' parts. Bottom feed with Createx/Wicked siphon bottles for large fabric/body work or top/cup feed for smaller jobs. A stack of stencils are required too. This is a considerable outlay and the detailed cleaning needed for your tools/kit would impress any surgeon or military officer! (take note family members!)
For T-shirt work - an assistant for each artist is a MUST. Needed to take orders, quickly change Ts on boards, hang them up, clean regularly used stencils/airbrushes and sort out tools/kit.
H&S: Maybe use a wrist support for long usage. Always spray cleaner through your airgun into an enclosed bottle - or wear a mask/have ventilation. It can be backbreaking and exhausting... (like face painting - believe it or not). Yes - that's right! You wouldn't think so, would you? If you work continuously for hours without a break you can get the usual creative 'brain-warp' from concentration and intense focus.
Contact me if you'd like to join our party airbrushing crew... Laura x
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