Cleaning Air Brushes
by Chuck Theidel
Every once in a while I am asked about certain problems with maintaining and cleaning air brushes. The most common questions deals with cleaning techniques. I have found that the best way to keep your airbrush in top operating condition is to make sure you clean it during and after you have finished using it.
I use Dio-sol when spraying with enamels, because I feel it does a much better job than the other thinners on the market, but use what works for you. The main idea is not to let any paint stay in your brush for a prolonged period of time. This is most important if you are using a water based paint.
Unlike oil based paints, water based paints are very difficult to remove when dry. So if you are using a water based paint make sure you clean your brush as soon as you are done with it. Also, it is a good idea to completely take your brush apart and clean all the internal parts once a month. Remember when it comes to airbrushes one can never clean it enough!
Also after a heavy spraying session, I often soak the parts that have the most paint on them. This keeps it from building up in the crevices and hard to reach areas