Okay I’ve read every post/topic on airbrush problems but still can’t solve this one.
Trying to airbrush Tamiya X-2 white but it always forms an orange peel effect and is never smooth. I’'ve tried adding more thinner and this just makes me add more coats but with the same result (it just takes longer!!). My psi is around 20 ,should it be less? And I was spraying about 5-6 inches from the model although when I came in closer it just built up real quick.
Any help would be great thanks.
With all gloss acrylics, I have to polish every bit of it out with 6000 through 12000 grit micro-mesh to get it as slick as gloss enamel. For airbrushing white, check out what MM Acryl white primer can do. I love it, but it’s satin white not gloss. If you put Future on the white primer, it might have the gloss white look that you want. So, I’d either try Future over white primer or Tamiya gloss white in synth lacquer spray cans.
Dan,
I say get in closer and learn trigger control so that you do not build up the paint too fast and cause runs. That thinner may also contain alcohol which will make it dry faster. Have you tried filtered water instead as a thinner?
You could try mixing water with that thinner 50/50 also and see how that does.
Find an old model to practice on so that you don’t ruin your good project.
Mike
Use Tamiya thinner if you are not already doing so. Their thinner works MUCH better with their paint than anything else I’ve tried. I normally just use alcohol to thin acrylics (or water if the instructions say so) but for gloss Tamiya paint I ALWAYS use their thinner.
Also, as MikeV pointed out, get in closer, spray thin coats and let them dry thoroughly between coats.
Thanks for the tips guys.
I’ll do some practice on an old mode but for my current project I’ll just use gloss varnish over white primer!!
Try Floquil Reefer White. It’s an enamel & it’s flat, but it goes on smooth & covers great. A topcoat of Future will give a very nice Gloss White.
Regards, Rick