Re: Airbrushing Basics?
I'm currently using a $300 Iwata with a generic compressor attached to an air tank. I replaced the valves, filters, tubing, etc with better quality parts.
First, don't cheap out on your airbrush. Get a good one, double action (push down on trigger = air, pull back = paint, FULL control), cup with cap (or you will spill at first and waste paint... lets not talk about the mess) and available replacement parts (needles get bent easily, nozzle opening can also be damaged easily). I recommend Iwata since it's the only brand that worked and kept working with very little issues (keep it clean!). You can go cheaper of course, but don't get those Chinese/generic brand airbrushes, you'll spend more time fiddling with them than doing any airbrushing, and when a part break you are SOL.
Badger, Mr Hobby and Paasche are good cheap airbrush brands.
Compressor with a tank or you won't get a constant air feed. Don't bother with the 'stealth' compressors, they just make a LITTLE bit less noise, and cost 2x more.
Stick to one type of paint, learn how that paint reacts with its thinner. Every paint is different (brand, type, color) and weather can affect it. Practice makes perfect, aim for a milky constituency.
Work in multiple layers, don't try to cover a part with one coat, and keep the airbrush moving! NEVER let the airbrush stand still when operating or you will have a run/drip.
Practice, practice, and practice.
Always clean your airbrush after EVERY usage. You don't need a sonic cleaner, but you'll need lint free rags/paper towels. Use the same thinner as the paint you just used to clean your airbrush. For acrylics you can cheap out and use Windex (blue one).
After a couple good usage, let the parts soak overnight in a cleaning bath. Careful with the orings, i personally clean them but don't let them soak in anything too long.
It takes time and practice, but the results are second to none