Paint and airbrushing tips and advice

[Ralph Wiggum]

What is the best method for removing the gum from masking tape without leaving residue that ruins attempts to paint over where it was? I am painting wood.

Use painters tape, which is designed to avoid leaving behind any residue.

[SMHFConvoy]

Found an old bottle of Vallejo black primer, it smells like Dettol does this mean it's gone bad?

[gamblor916]

Sometimes you can rescue old paint by adding thinners and let it sit overnight. I know this works with lacquers not really sure about acrylics.

[SMHFConvoy]

The pigment and vehicle had separated but shaking it solved that and the primer is like when I first bought it, it just smells like Dettol.

[SMHFConvoy]

Just wondering, acrylic paint is a safer alternative to enamel paint, if I build a clean box to airbrush in fumes should be minimal right? I don't have access to any exhaust fans at the moment and can't open the windows because of smoke from the bushfires.

[Ralph Wiggum]

No, acrylic is still toxic when airbrushing; its the fine mist and particles getting into your respiratory system which is also a hazard:

I use one of these (actually a single filter which I can?t find on the website) when airbrushing now:

https://www.bunnings.com./protector-...r-kit_p5822368

Combined with one of these gas/vapour filters:

https://www.bunnings.com.au/protecto...ilter_p6327945

Creates a perfect seal on my face and I don?t smell a thing when I?m airbrushing.

In any event, acrylic paints are way easier to clean than enamel, especially when using an airbrush.

[SMHFConvoy]

I have a face mask but I need something that minimises spray to the rest of the household.

[SMHFConvoy]

Upgraded air compressor, the instructions suggest cleaning the moisture trap every 3 months but how do I unscrew it? It's bolted on tight, YouTube and Google show how to maintain commercial compressors.

[gamblor916]

Moisture traps don't usually require cleaning. Just make sure to get rid of any accumulated water though. There should be a valve or screw to release.

[SMHFConvoy]

All I've got is some sort of spring release at the bottom but it doesn't seem to do much, it looks like I can unscrew the acrylic tube but I'll have to buy some adjustable pliers


IMG_20200420_094136 by Nathan Soehardi, on Flickr