Airbrush Primer Question

By WalrusofDoom, in Star Wars: Armada Painting and Modification

Is this what airbrushed primer is supposed to look like? Specifically the slight grainy texture to it. (I realize that that isn't an armada ship, but pertains to my armada stuff) The last shot is what the primer looks like when painted, minus the fuzz that never got cleaned off the model.

nw3arUM.jpg RvTtacw.jpg vsok3XU.jpg

Imo it looks a little thick but even. Then again I'm a complete noob with an airbrush so take it with a grain of salt.

Primer should not be grainy, and also should not be applied so thickly. If it's real primer (and no base color) a "dusted" light coat will do the job: help further coats of color stick better to the plastic.

As for the grainy texture: I'd say you spray at too low air humidity, or don't thin you color enough. The paint is literally already drying "midflight" and cannot flow into a nice coat on your model anymore.

So add more appropriate thinner, spray at another place, or (if you use a rattlecan) get a bit closer while priming. But beware - don't get too close, or the airpressure will blow away the still wet color on the model.