thoughts on airbrushes?

[missholly]

I'm having the WORST time with my dipping glazes. i can't get them to come out smooth no matter what i do.

so i thought id try an airbrush.

 

any thoughts on what i need to look for?

i know nothing about airbrushes and compressors.

 

i need cheap and easy!

[Rebel_Rocker]

You can get an inexpensive airbrush for about $40. (maybe cheaper too, just a quick search here)

http://www.chicagoairbrushsupply.com/bamo200nh1.html

I've had a badger and they are great.

 

This type would just have a button to release the air, you need to change the nozzle and needle sizes to get a larger or tighter spray pattern. Probably just fine for doing a 'dip', coating a whole piece fairly evenly.

 

You can spend up to several hundred on a nice dual-action. They have a button that slides back and forth so you can change line width during the spray. A little harder to use but not much. Would be better if you want to do more detailed work.

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Compressors are the most expensive part , usually $150.

This one looks like a good price though

http://www.chicagoairbrushsupply.com/ba80braico.html

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If you aren't going for fine detail (probably easier with underglazes, etc..) I'd be more worried about spending more on a compressor than the brush. Even a cheaper brush will give decent results. But a compressor is more likely to break down, so get a good one.

[bciskepottery]

Maybe your glazes need some adjustment . . . too watery? too thick? Linda Arbuckle had a video posted on Ceramic Arts Daily that talks about getting your glazes to the right consistency.

 

http://ceramicartsdaily.org/ceramic-supplies/ceramic-glaze/video-of-the-week-how-to-flocculate-a-ceramic-glaze-for-better-coverage/

 

Getting good coverage from an airbrush takes practice, so expect to invest some time and a few pieces that are "test tiles". I use the Critter spray gun.

[missholly]

thats really helpful rebel, thanks for the info. its much appreciated!

 

bciskepottery, i just can't seem to get them right. i always end up with drips or other inconsistencies. its driving me mad!

ill definitely check out what linda arbuckle has to say.

 

thanks guys!

[yedrow]

You might try one liter batches with test samples, and make incremental changes to find the right spot. Try using less water before messing with floculation. Also, if you get, Mastering Cone 6 Glazes, there are some very good glazes in that. Starting with a good glaze and learning the quirks of fussier glazes later seems to work for me. I'm having the same problems as you I think. As an intermediate fix I put the glaze on with enough water to dry reasonably fast, then put a second dip on. Also, glazes have different properties that are important. Reading up on them is helpful.

 

Joel.

[Roberta12]

I feel your pain, Miss Holly! I have to tell you that I LOVE spraying glazes. I am not a good dipper either. I agree with all that has been said here....glaze at the right consistency, well mixed glazes, good recipes, but I do not feel as confident dipping as I do spraying. Rebel Rocker is right on with the comment about spend your money on a good compressor. The studio I used to work in went through 3 small ones. At home, now, I use a larger compressor. 10 gal, 125 psi. It's a Brute and seems to be very good. But it is bigger than what you would need....my husband shares with me! My spray gun is a critter. I like the convienence of changing out the pint jars. But I have used a HVLP gun and you definitely have more control. If you go this direction make sure you use a respirator, have a way of venting it outside or spray outside. And I had to work at getting the right amount of coverage, for layering glazes. Good luck