Homemade Airbrush (super Precise)
Intro: Homemade Airbrush (super Precise)
This Instructable will explain, in detail, how to make an airbrush out of parts that can be easily purchased at your local hardware store, or found around the house. With this airbrush, you will have full and complete control over the paint flow, the airflow, and the shape of the exiting spray.
The final product (if constructed properly) will rival many high-end airbrushes, for about 1/3 of the price.
The final product (if constructed properly) will rival many high-end airbrushes, for about 1/3 of the price.
STEP 1: Parts List
Here is the exploded view of the airbrush.
All parts are listed here.
Note: All of the parts have the same thread pattern, so make sure of this when constructing your own airbrush.
All parts are listed here.
Note: All of the parts have the same thread pattern, so make sure of this when constructing your own airbrush.
STEP 2: Modifying the Pneumatic Tubing
For this step, you will need the following items:
2 pieces of pneumatic tubing (one at 4" and one at 4.5")
For the tapered piece (part #3)
Heat up the middle of the tube evenly (don't heat it until you see bubbles- this means you have ruined that section).
Then slowly pull on either end, and the tube should stretch.
Don't let go yet! Keep your hands on either side until it has cooled (otherwise it will deform) (blow on it to cool it faster)
Cut the tubing in half, and set those aside for now.
For the angled piece (part #12)
Evenly heat the tubing 1.5" from the end (it doesn't matter which side at this point)
Bend the tubing at a 135* angle
Do the same for the other side, and make sure it looks like the picture (if it doesn't look like the picture, it won't work)
2 pieces of pneumatic tubing (one at 4" and one at 4.5")
For the tapered piece (part #3)
Heat up the middle of the tube evenly (don't heat it until you see bubbles- this means you have ruined that section).
Then slowly pull on either end, and the tube should stretch.
Don't let go yet! Keep your hands on either side until it has cooled (otherwise it will deform) (blow on it to cool it faster)
Cut the tubing in half, and set those aside for now.
For the angled piece (part #12)
Evenly heat the tubing 1.5" from the end (it doesn't matter which side at this point)
Bend the tubing at a 135* angle
Do the same for the other side, and make sure it looks like the picture (if it doesn't look like the picture, it won't work)
STEP 3: Assembling the Airbrush
Once you have obtained all of the parts, you can begin assembling.
But first, wrap teflon tape around all of the threaded joints. (this is essential for an air-tight seal)
Begin at the back of the airbrush, and work towards the tip. (you will need your pliers for this)
Keep assembling but do not attach Part #8 or #9 to anything just yet. (wait until the end)
Make sure you pre-assemble Parts #1, #2, and #3. Instructions
sharpen the tip on Part #1
Insert Part #1 into Part #2
Crimp the end of Part #2 where it contacts Part #1
Insert Part #2 into Part #3, and make sure it is airtight
Cut/ melt/ drill holes in Part #9 so that Parts #8 and #12 can fit into it.
Once Everything is assembled, glue Part #9 to Part #7, Clamp it, and let it sit overnight.
If you have done everything correctly, you should have a fully functional, Super-Durable airbrush.
If you need any more explanation, or wish to see the internal components of my airbrush, just leave a comment. Thanks :)
But first, wrap teflon tape around all of the threaded joints. (this is essential for an air-tight seal)
Begin at the back of the airbrush, and work towards the tip. (you will need your pliers for this)
Keep assembling but do not attach Part #8 or #9 to anything just yet. (wait until the end)
Make sure you pre-assemble Parts #1, #2, and #3. Instructions
sharpen the tip on Part #1
Insert Part #1 into Part #2
Crimp the end of Part #2 where it contacts Part #1
Insert Part #2 into Part #3, and make sure it is airtight
Cut/ melt/ drill holes in Part #9 so that Parts #8 and #12 can fit into it.
Once Everything is assembled, glue Part #9 to Part #7, Clamp it, and let it sit overnight.
If you have done everything correctly, you should have a fully functional, Super-Durable airbrush.
If you need any more explanation, or wish to see the internal components of my airbrush, just leave a comment. Thanks :)
36 Comments
lwoolward 12 years ago
A typed parts list would be much appreciated, though!
Lokisgodhi 11 years ago
Try Harbor Freight. They have inexpensive airbrushes.
dabo750 8 years ago
epitai.koragh 9 years ago
can i get a step by step instruction of this
choppercat 10 years ago
jcsevero 11 years ago
Kojaq 12 years ago
Lokisgodhi 11 years ago
While this a great theoretical instructible, demonstrating you can make an airbrush, it's going to really expensive to make and result in a heavy unwieldy tool with minimal usability.
An airbrush is supposed to be an easy to handle painting tool that can apply paint and ink with precision. This instructable isn't that. You're much better off to put your money into buying a real airbrush and your time into practicing with it to improve your skills in handling it.
desmondtheredx 12 years ago
budforum 12 years ago
xtian12 12 years ago
jimmytvf 12 years ago
budforum 12 years ago
jimmytvf 12 years ago
budforum 12 years ago
for all those who have asked and waited patiently
1) 3/32"od brass rod--1/2" long
2) 3/32"id brass tube--1" long
3) elongated polyurethane pneumatic tubing--3/4" long
4) brass hose connector 1/4"od threads
5) female to female connector--1/4"id threads
6) male to male connector
7) brass 3-way T-shape junction
8) 3/32"id Brass tube-- 1/2" long
9) small plastic container (for paint)
10) lid for aforementioned container
11) Brass tube 3" long by 1/8"id threads
12) Polyurethane pneumatic tube 1/8"id X 3.5" long
13) 90*- Multiple rotation valve
14) brass 3-way T-shape junction
15) 90*- Multiple rotation valve
Happy constructing! :)
note: when I tested this invention, the cap for the paint cup popped off, due to the pressure. I have potential solutions, but please, feel free to innovate. by the way, test with water first!!
splazem 12 years ago
zydro 12 years ago
lee_schnitz 12 years ago
Please, take some time and dress up this Instructable, add more details, even a price list, and time estimate.
Keep up the good work, and make it great work!
Taurgus 12 years ago
jayfuller 12 years ago