Loiner
Senior Airman
An airbrush isn't essential, but I used to paint only with brushes and since getting an airbrush last year I would add that it does make painting the main body colour much more pleasing, and it is so quick to spray thin coats over the entire model, to quickly build up a nice even finish every time.
It only has to be a cheap airbrush which will still produce very pleasing results, eg. Humbrol, which local hobby stores typically sell, and a cheap compressor (or you can use a tyre if you don't mind pumping it up a few times, which I did for a while). I still use brush painting for all details though, and most smaller parts, internals etc. The advice for canopies is to dip in 'Future' liquid wax polish, mask off and spray, but I find it easier to get a thin brush and steady hand, and am usually pleased with the result.
It only has to be a cheap airbrush which will still produce very pleasing results, eg. Humbrol, which local hobby stores typically sell, and a cheap compressor (or you can use a tyre if you don't mind pumping it up a few times, which I did for a while). I still use brush painting for all details though, and most smaller parts, internals etc. The advice for canopies is to dip in 'Future' liquid wax polish, mask off and spray, but I find it easier to get a thin brush and steady hand, and am usually pleased with the result.
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