What psi for airbrushing minis?

PSI for Miniature Airbrushing: Real-World Guidance

1. General Starting Points

Basecoats/Large Areas: 18–25 PSI
Higher pressure covers faster but increases overspray.
Details/Shadows: 12–18 PSI
Lower pressure improves control for fine lines and transitions.
Extreme Precision (Eyes/Lenses): 8–12 PSI
Requires thinning paint heavily; prone to tip-dry.

2. Factors That Change Your PSI

Paint Thickness:
Thick primers/acrylics need 20–25 PSI to avoid spattering.
Thin inks/washes spray well at 10–15 PSI.
Airbrush Nozzle Size:
0.2mm nozzle: 12–18 PSI (high detail).
0.4mm nozzle: 15–25 PSI (versatile).
Distance to Miniature:
Close work (1–2cm): Drop to 10–15 PSI to prevent paint flooding.
Zenithal priming (15–20cm): 20–25 PSI for broader spray.

3. Signs Your PSI is Wrong

Spiderwebbing: Paint forms cobweb strands → PSI too high.
Spotty/Sputtering Spray: PSI too low for paint viscosity.
Paint Pooling: Mini’s details drown → PSI too high or too close.
Excessive Tip-Dry: Low PSI + thick paint clogs nozzle faster.

4. Technique Trumps Numbers

Trigger Discipline:
Pull back air before paint (prevents blobs).
Fade out paint before releasing air.
Test Spray First: Always check pattern/thickness on paper or glove.
Adjust On-the-Fly:
Lower PSI for edge highlights.
Bump PSI when basecoating armor plates.

5. Pitfalls to Avoid

"High PSI = Faster" Myth: Speeding through coats risks obscuring details.
Ignoring Humidity: Moisture in air lines requires 2–4 extra PSI compensation.
Cheap Compressor Pulsation: Even "correct" PSI sputters if airflow isn’t steady.