Single action airbrush kits do not offer great precision, so if you’re creating a nail look with intricate details, this might not be the right kit for you.
Many airbrushes serve many functions. They can be used for cosmetics, painting, tattooing, and tanning. Make sure the airbrush kit you purchase is compatible with nail crafting.
Make sure you screw on each end of the hose very tight before starting the machine.
Don’t try to use regular nail polish in your airbrush unless the directions specify that it’s okay to do so. Using the wrong kind of paint, even with paint thinner mixed in, could clog up your airbrush gun or create a lumpy and uneven paint job.
Some airbrush kits will come with paint that attaches to the bottom of the gun. Read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly load the paint.
If you’re using a dual-action airbrush, first release the air by pressing down on the trigger. Then pull the trigger back to release the paint. Make sure the air is coming out at all times. You can adjust the volume of paint using the trigger. The amount of pressure you put on the trigger controls how much paint is released.
While you’re practicing on the paper, the paint should go on dry. If it’s going on wet, you’re pulling the trigger back too far. You can also practice spraying dots on the graph paper by just pressing the trigger without moving the gun. The dot should be clear and perfectly round.
If you use a cloth, make sure to choose something you don’t mind getting messy (like an old tablecloth or sheet).
You can choose between plastic, paper, and self-adhesive stencils. Purchase plastic stencils if you plan on reusing them. If you want to make your own stencils, create designs on paper with designer hole punchers or a craft knife. You can even use materials you already have at home, such as lace or feathers.
Check the supplier of your airbrush kit. They may offer specific top and base coats to use on your nails. Apply a thin layer of white nail polish over the topcoat to really make the airbrush paint pop.
Make sure the tape isn’t covering any part of the nail you wish to spray paint.
Make sure your base coat is completely dry before placing the stencil on the nail. You can experiment with designs by adding multiple stencil layers.
Move the airbrush gun in a smooth, fluid motion as you work to get even results. Once you’re done spraying, move the airbrush away from your nail with the stream still going before you release the trigger. Repeat this step for all the nails you want to apply a design to.
Make sure your base coat and airbrush paint are completely dry before applying the topcoat. Apply 2 coats for extra protection.
