advice on regulator, and accessories?

[dahlialia]

I am new to airbrushing. I will be using it primarily for dyes on fabric.

I have a 2.5 hp compressor with a 20 gallon tank. I will be buying a Paasche VL airbrush set.

I am unsure about regulators (I've seen cheap ones around $30, but am also looking at the ones at Dick Blick - they have a Badger and a Parker in the $60-$80 range). I don't see many reviews or really know what to look for. My buying options are somewhat limited; I'm in Canada and prices are much higher here, but I will be in the States in a few weeks and can pick up an order then.

I'm also wondering about other accessories - will I get back home and really wish I'd bought more bottles, or needles, or some other bits and pieces?

TIA

[jumpforjoy61]

whatever the brand you need a diaphragm regulator ,most come with a built in water trap which works best when set remotely from the compressor to allow the moist air to condense in order for the trap to work eficiantly ,however as your only using an airbrush with a relativly large compressor hot moist air should not be an issue

Parker are a good brand but in all honesty for your aplication i wouldnt fret too much as your not running a pro bodyshp where quality may be more of an issue
you can find plenty of mini regulator watertraps on ebay which are more than good enough for airbrush work

Paul

[Keith Russell]

Using a compressor with a tank (esp. as large a tank as your compressor has), you probably won't have to worry about moisture in your lines, at all.

What you will want to do regaularly is drain the condesnsed moisture from your tank; there's usually a valve on the bottom of the tank. Open the valve, drain the (most likely rust-colored) water, and close the valve.

You don't want water sitting in the bottom of the tank, as it can--eventually--rust rhrough the tank walls.

I'd recommend doing this at least once a month.