Thursday 26 March 2015

Ad-Mech Airbrush WIP


It's been while between posts and I am yet to sit down and properly photograph the rest of my Blood Angels and finish the last battle report from Gottacon. Instead I've been doing my best to counteract the post tournment burnout by diving into a non-gaming related hobby projects. I picked up a new dual action airbrush recently and have had great success trying out different painting styles. I found that the compressed air heats up quickly and spits but I didn't want to buy a new compressor given the cost and space issues in our apartment. Instead I purchased an in-line filter, added a gauge and regulator, and picked up some piping from the hardware store for a quick mock up of how a "do-it-yourself" setup might look.



Taking this "pipe bomb" concept to the next level involved doubling the capacity and mounting it on a more convenient and space friendly stand (or toilet flange as my co-workers pointed out). With the automatic shut off in the compressor this setup works very well, though needed a little tidying due to the lengthy air line included with the moisture trap. I also made sure to test using only my older airbrush in case any fumes or particles from sawing the plastic were to get into the lines.


After a few days of staring at this monstrosity I realised I could save a lot of space by cutting down on the amount of air line as well as the compressor housing itself. Then a generous relative sent me a big birthday box of citadel scenery and a plan slowly began to form...



With the Adeptus Mechanicus just around the corner, what better way to celebrate than making my very own Manufactorum that doubles as an airbrush compressor and stand? I always dislike digging through the cupboard whenever I want to do some airbrushing, so maybe having it ready to go on my bench will encourage the creative spirit. I quickly mocked up the piping, wiring, and mounted the compressor on pins for easy removal while I worked out the rest of the scenery. I'm now at a stage where the last of the glue is drying, and I have a workable setup ready for the next airbrush project. I think the key will be to work on this one slowly, adding more details as I see fit rather than rushing to the finish line like other projects. I look forward to painting a few Skitarii to stand guard!


6 comments:

  1. Now that is just awesome. Above and beyond sir! Making your airbrush rig look awesome? I'm quite jealous now!

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    1. Thanks Greg! I was sick of the tiny compressor tipping over, and didn't like the look of most off the shelf items. I look forward to using the rig as an impromptu photo booth once it's all painted.

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  2. That is seriously cool - definitely not where I was expecting the post to go. Great idea, man!

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    1. Yeah i was tapping away at a more lengthy blog post but decided to share this one instead, thanks!

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