IDEAL HEIGHT FOR A SPRAY BOOTH?

I find it difficult to airbrush models accurately while seated at a desk. Is there an ideal height for a spray booth? Paul Glenn, by e-mail

George says: Physical comfort is a vital aspect when airbrushing, especially with precision work such as weathering or freehand detail painting. If your arm and wrist are tense, you’re unlikely to retain full control over the airbrush. Additionally, fatigue will set in much quicker. I know many modellers who prefer to stand while spraying as this allows them to move around the model more effectively, ensuring that paint reaches all of the nooks and crannies. This is also important when employing aerosol paints. Accordingly, the bed of the extraction booth should be set at around chest height. While standing is great for painting overall coats of paint, it may not be ideal for more delicate work and our legs can become fatigued, as well as our arms! Sitting on a tall stool is an option, but I prefer having a surface upon which I can rest my elbows for steady, precise work. In my workshop, I’ve set my booth at an intermediate height, raised 30cm from the top of the bench on a simple timber frame. The total height of 130cm from the floor makes it equally suitable for spraying while seated or standing. We’re not all of the same stature, however, so an element of experimentation is required to find the correct height for your own needs.

It may be worth setting a spray booth at a variety of heights until you find the most comfortable level. George’s booth is raised on a simple frame, which also provides handy storage beneath.

Airbrushing while standing can be comfortable for some, but others prefer to sit.