Shooting hairspray

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Painting and airbrushing
1

I like hairspray chipping. I have always sprayed the model right from the hairspray can. I want more control and want to use the airbrush. What’s the best material to clean the airbrush when I’m done with the hairspray?

2

Not sure about that one, but like it is with paint, finding out what the vehicle is for the hairspray should get you to where you want to go. I’m guessing the vehicle for hairspray is probably going to be alcohol of some kind.

3

I’m thinking lacquer thinner will clean anything.

Medea Airbrush cleaner may do the job

4

For the airbrush, if you’re using acrylics, just flush & shoot some water. Follow up with some 91% isopropyl alcohol to dry out the water.

Water and laquer thinner do not work well when mixed. The alcohol will evaporate the leftover water and enable you to use the laquer thinner so you can really shine it up.

If using oil based paint… laquer thinner, mineral spirits. I most always finish clean up with laquer thinner.

P.S.

When finished cleaning my airbrush I always put some Break Free cleaner*lubricant *preservative on the needle before putting it back in the brush.

With a model…

Well, hairspray is hairspray. Spray some on your hair. You wash your hair to get it out and you don’t actually need any shampoo. Looks like water is the key.

If you want to remove it from a model, use a couple drops of dish washing detergent to some water (I use distilled water) to let it flow better and give it a good brushing.

Using alcohol may or may not cause the paint to peel or fade, but it won’t hurt the plastic. Without a doubt, laquer thinner will remove the paint and destroy the plastic too.

5

I flush my ab with plain water and is good to go. I love using cheap hairspray from the Dollar Store, decanted for more control and costs a fraction compared to what a tiny “chipping fluid” bottle costs.

6

Thanks PJ. I always used whatever hairspray my wife had around. I always liked the results. Don’t see the need to purchase the chipping fluid from AK or the others.

I appreciate all the responses

7

Water and dish soap.

8

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