When you own one of the best craft spray guns, then you can increase the quality of your item with little effort.
Paint sprayers create a consistent look and finish in very little time.
If you’re still using brushes to paint the items you make, then it is time to explore the benefits of what a paint sprayer could bring to you.

Best Craft Spray Guns Quick Comparison Chart
Best Craft Spray Guns for Hobbies and Small Jobs
Editor’s Choice Premium Craft Spray Gun
Fuji Hobby Pro
- Extra Turbine Filters and Extra Bottom Feed Cup Parts Kit
- 2 year warranty!
- 2 stage turbine with 1.8mm air cap
- Professional Non-bleed Spray Gun features pattern control knob to adjust size of fan pattern
- 25-Feet hose includes air control valve to reduce overspray and bounce back
The Fuji Turbine system is based on an industrial-design no-bleed spray gun. You’re given pattern control from the knob, so you can have the correct fan pattern for painting at all times.
This HVLP spray system offers outstanding quality in both build and results, making it a smart investment for serious DIYers and hobbyists alike. It stands out as one of the top-performing craft spray guns on the market.
The cost is lower than other Fuji models because it runs on a 2-stage turbine, unlike the more powerful Fuji Q4 or Mini-Mite systems that feature 3- or 4-stage turbines. The Hobby Pro comes equipped with a siphon-feed gun only, whereas higher-end Fuji options include both siphon and gravity-feed HVLP guns for added flexibility.
One of the standout features is its adjustable spray fan pattern, which allows you to fine-tune for precise detail work or go wide for faster coverage. The siphon feed design also helps minimize overspray, helping you get more mileage from your paint.
While the system is a bit loud during operation—common for turbine-driven units—that’s expected with its powerful 1400-watt motor. Overall, this sprayer strikes a great balance between performance and price for those who want professional-looking results without the premium price tag.
Unfortunately, the Hobby Pro only comes with one air cap: 1.3mm. You will have to buy more tips to spray all of your paint mediums. While 1.3mm is great for thinner materials like lacquers, you will need a 1.5mm minimum to spray latex. If you need a larger tip, you can grab a 2.0mm Aircap set #6.
It’s always up to you. The spray gun itself offers a stainless-steel fluid nozzle and needle that works hard to prevent clogging. The stainless steel turbine housing helps to dissipate heat from the motor.
The spray gun stays cool during extended use thanks to an insulated handle that protects your hand from heat. With 25 feet of flexible hose included, you’ll have plenty of room to move around your workspace whether you’re in a garage, shop, or studio.
This gun offers excellent control over your spray pattern—adjust it vertically, horizontally, or circularly, with customizable widths ranging from 1 inch to 12 inches. It’s one of the most versatile spray guns available for crafters and DIY enthusiasts.
A standout feature is the two-year warranty—twice as long as what most spray systems offer—giving you extra confidence in the product’s durability and performance.
Cleaning is straightforward: for water-based materials, just flush with water. If you’re using oil-based products, you’ll need to use mineral spirits and spend a little more time to get it fully clean.
No compressor needed
Pattern controls
2 year warranty
Large Investment
Only comes with 1.3mm air cap
Badger Air Brush Model 105
The Badger Patriot is a well-designed airbrush that offers comfort, balance, and ease of use—making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced users.
Crafted in the USA from durable stainless steel, this airbrush handles a wide variety of applications, from cake decorating and stenciling to body art, cosplay, miniatures, and even cosmetics.
Its top-mounted gravity feed cup delivers a consistent paint flow, and the dual-action internal mix design allows for excellent control and precision when working on detailed projects.
The 0.5mm needle and 0.30 oz color cup are capable of spraying both thicker mediums like paint and thinner liquids like inks or varnishes, giving you plenty of flexibility across different materials.
One thing to note: cleaning this model can take slightly more time than others. Since the needle must be removed from the rear of the unit, paint can reach more internal components—unlike models with a cut-away handle designed for faster maintenance.
Badger backs the Patriot with a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects, plus a lifetime guarantee on labor and the PTFE solvent-resistant seals, showing confidence in the airbrush’s long-term performance.
Can spray many paint mediums
Well balanced spray
Editor’s Choice: One of the Best Craft Spray Guns
HomeRight Super Finish Max
- Easy to Clean
- Adjustable Settings
- Comes with 3 tips: 1.5, 2.0, 4.0mm
- Perfect for beginners and Pros
- 450 watt turbine motor
Take your crafts to the next level with this HVLP paint sprayer from HomeRight.
Make sure that you give the Super Finish Max a closer look. It offers the same functionality as the top models in the industry, but for a fraction of the price. It even requires less thinning that high-level models. If you want to start staining right away, this model will accommodate you. The lower levels of pressure with this HVLP model mean that you have less overspray to worry about.
Right out of the box, the HomeRight Super Finish Max has multiple spray settings that help you conquer more projects. You can also buy more spray tips making it even more versatile.
The Super Max comes with a 450 watt turbine motor. When paired with an interchangeable tip, most paint mediums can be sprayed. Three brass spray tips are included: 1.5, 2.0, and 4mm.
You can tackle your entire staining to-do list with this strong and lightweight sprayer.
Always pay attention to the connectors that you use on your HomeRight HVLP Sprayer. Some models offer users a connector that is smaller in diameter than the air hose that connects to the unit.
Because this is a restriction to the flow of the paint or other substance, pressure can build up at the connection and cause issues.
There are some elements of an HVLP design with this HomeRight model, but there are also some siphon feed elements included as well.
This model helps maintain steady spray pressure while you’re applying paint, stain, or varnish, allowing you to achieve a smooth, professional-grade finish with ease.
We also appreciate the thoughtful ergonomic upgrades built into the design, making it more comfortable to handle over longer sessions.
Included with this unit is a handy air-blow nozzle. When used without paint or finish, it delivers a focused stream of air—perfect for blowing out dust and debris from electronics, hard-to-reach corners, or beneath furniture.
Weighing just 3 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to prevent hand fatigue during extended use. While there are craft sprayers on the market that are a little lighter, they typically don’t match this model’s performance when it comes to larger woodworking or furniture refinishing jobs.
It’s super easy to find parts for this very popular paint sprayer. New paint containers and tips can be found online. Need a spray shelter? HomeRight makes that too!
Combine that with the brass nozzle for added durability and you can have confidence in the results you’re producing.
The 40 ounce cup is bigger than most other models (which have 32 ounce paint cups), and you should be able to cover about 90-100 square feet of paint area with one cup.
If you add the HomeRight Rapid Cleaning Tool to your arsenal, clean up is even easier.
Good for a ton of projects
Lightweight
Adjustable Controls
Less overspray
Includes 3 spray tips
Not for commercial Use
Not great for large projects>br>
Master Airbrush: Best Airbrush Kit
This is a great little airbrush kit that gives you everything you need for your hobbies. It comes with a TC-20 air compressor, which includes a pressure regulator and air filter, so you can paint consistently.
The airbrush is a gravity-feed model, which is versatile and very forgiving to beginners. You’ll also receive an instructional booklet that is perfect for beginners.
If you’re going to be using multiple colors and need more paint containers, these ones are specially made for this machine. This professional small paint spray system is great for ornaments and other small detailed projects.
Don’t forget to also buy caps for the containers, then you can store them without your paint drying out.
Think of this option as a good starting kit if you’ve never used a paint sprayer before. Use their custom made cleaning kit and how to guide to clean your sprayer perfectly.
The finish is nice and smooth, and I loved how it sat in my hand. The trigger is smooth instead of rigid, but there is a slight catch when you press the trigger that is typical on this style of airbrush.
We love the detailed sheet included that outlines all of the parts.
Many custom parts available
Only comes with 1 tip
Campbell Hausfeld
- 0.7 and 2.1 CFM guns
- Adjustable paint flow
- Includes cleaning kit
- 10 paint filters included
- Operates at 40 PSI
This gravity feed paint spray kit gives you everything you need to get started on your next craft painting project.
Two spray guns in this Campbell Hausfeld Kit give you versatility. You can paint a variety of projects, including furniture, woodworking, cars, etc. The two spray guns require 2.1 CFM and 0.7 CFM at 40 PSI.
These spray guns have lower air consumption, meaning they can be used with smaller, more affordable air compressors. Just be sure your compressor can maintain consistent airflow—especially for jobs requiring a continuous wet edge. Many 5–6 gallon units may struggle to keep up, so it’s important to check compatibility before starting your project.
The set includes two paint cup sizes, allowing you to switch easily between detailed touch-up work and larger surfaces. Thanks to the design of the guns and their softer spray output, you’ll experience reduced overspray and a finer, more even finish.
Dual control knobs give you precise command over both airflow and paint volume, so you can adjust to suit each task. The primary gravity feed gun includes a 550ml paint cup, while the smaller touch-up sprayer comes with a 120ml reservoir.
With 15 filters in total—including 5 in-line paint strainers—and three cleaning brushes, this kit provides everything you need to keep your equipment in great shape. The gravity feed design ensures steady paint flow for consistent results.
On the downside, we found the fan pattern controls to be a bit unreliable. Some users have also noted issues with the built-in pressure gauge not functioning accurately, and the trigger has a noticeable resistance, which could lead to fatigue during long painting sessions.
Thread seal tape and a wrench are included for leak-proof connections. It’s a well-rounded kit that covers most of what a hobbyist or beginner might need to get started.
Control over paint consistency
Cleaning brushes and filters included
1 year limited warrant
Needs a compressor
Best Hobby Paint Sprayer Kit
Paasche VL Airbrush
- Great for airbrushing
- 1/32 inch to 1.5″ spray patterns
- Single AND Dual Action
- Siphon Feed
- 3 heads included: 0.55, 0.7 and 1mm
- Made in USA
This is a nice, but basic airbrush that offers patterns from 1/32 inch to 1.5 inches in diameter. It functions in single-action and double-action, which is controlled by a roller in front of the trigger.
I love this because a beginner can use it as single action and then switch to double action once they have mastered their airbrushing skills without having to buy another airbrush.
Comes equipped with three head sizes that you may require including 0.5, 0.7 and 1mm. The airbrush is chrome-plated for added durability and making it easy to clean.
The controls are simple, but intuitive, and the PTFE packing enables it to handle any water-based or solvent-based paint. Use with many paint mediums and for many jobs such as tattoos, cosmetics, cakes, and crafts.
The Paasche VL comes with:
- 1/4 ounce metal cup
- 1 ounce bottle assembly
- 1 ounce storage bottle
- hanger
- wrench
- 6 foot braided hose
- lessons booklet and manual
To clean after you’re done working, just run a standard paint cleaner through the airbrush and wipe it down. It’s perfect for beginners or experienced hobbyists. One of the best craft spray guns out there.
Beginner friendly
Single and double action
3 heads included
Made in USA
Prone to Clogs if you aren’t careful
Paasche H-Set Single Action
- Beginner Friendly
- Siphon Feed
- Fan Pattern 1/16 inch to 1.5 inch
- Single Action
- 3 tips included: .45, .65, 1.05mm
The H Set from Paasche offers up easy control for those learning to airbrush. The single action trigger allows for newbie crafters and airbrushers to learn how to airbrush without worrying about multiple actions or needles, etc.
Adjusting this airbrush set is straightforward, making it easy to dial in the spray pattern and airflow you need for precise results on your projects.
The package includes a 1/4-ounce metal paint cup, a bottle assembly, a 1-ounce storage bottle, a mounting hanger, a small wrench, and an instruction manual. Its lightweight design helps prevent hand fatigue during extended use.
A 6-foot braided hose is also included, giving you plenty of flexibility and reach while working. Note that this kit does not come with a compressor, which is why it’s priced lower than all-in-one kits. You’ll need to purchase a compatible airbrush compressor separately.
Here are the key compressor requirements to ensure compatibility:
- Minimum air volume: 0.5 CFM at 20 PSI
- Operating pressure range: 20–75 PSI
- Air inlet size: 1/4 inch–20 thread (Paasche-compatible adapters are available)
This setup is ideal for hobbyists and artists who want a reliable entry-level airbrush system without investing in a full kit up front.
The H set is also made in the USA, which I love.
Users love this airbrush but noted that the trigger is a little stiff.
his airbrush kit performs best for applying even base coats, clean lines, and precision stencil work. It’s compatible with both water-based and solvent-based paints, and thanks to the three included nozzle sizes, it can easily handle thicker materials as well.
Durable stainless steel needles help resist corrosion, extend the life of the tool, and minimize clogging during use. The H-Set is known for its solid build quality, offering smooth paint flow with virtually no spattering. Cleanup is also simple, making it a practical choice for regular use.
One minor drawback is its balance. Unlike other models where the weight sits directly above the trigger, this airbrush’s center of gravity sits about 3/4 of an inch forward. This might make the unit feel slightly heavier during extended sessions, especially if you’re used to a more centered design.
Durable chrome plated body
Easy to clean
Workflow and control is beginner friendly
Lacking in accuracy and precision
Best Budget Craft Spray Guns
Wagner Stationary Studio PLUS Sprayer
- 15 foot hose
- Lightweight
- Perfect for small to medium projects
- 2 nozzles included: one for detail smooth finish another for semi smooth finish
- 1 year warranty
This stationary sprayer is a great option for those who have consistent hobbies or crafts that require painting.
The control finish nozzle creates a semi-smooth finish that can give you the rustic look you want.
Or, if you prefer, the Wagner Stationary HVLP detailed finishing nozzle creates the smooth finish that you need. You’re given a 15-foot air hose to move around your shop or garage without running into stuff.
Can this paint sprayer handle furniture refinishing? Absolutely. Is it suitable for kitchen cabinets? Yes—if you’re willing to be a bit patient with the setup and adjustments.
The Wagner Studio Plus HVLP Stationary Sprayer can spray latex paint effectively, but proper thinning is crucial for best results. While Wagner recommends thinning latex by 10% to 20%, we found some brands needed up to 40% thinning to avoid clogs and achieve a smooth finish. Make sure to follow the paint manufacturer’s guidelines and watch your spray pattern carefully to catch any inconsistencies early.
One of the standout features of this model is how light it is. The sprayer itself weighs only 1.4 pounds when empty—about one-tenth the weight of comparable options—making it easier on your hands during extended use.
You’ll have plenty of reach while working, too. The combined length of the hose and power cord offers roughly 25 feet of mobility. While Wagner advertises 30 feet, that’s assuming a full stretch, which isn’t always practical during a project.
Cleaning the unit requires a bit of effort. You’ll need to flush out the cup, hose, and sprayer body manually, which can be time-consuming. Because of this, we don’t recommend using oil-based products with this model unless you’re prepared to spend extra time cleaning.
Lightweight
2 nozzles included
15 foot hose
Picky about viscosity of thinned paint
No oil based paints
Critter Spray Products
- Siphon Feed
- 3/4 HP compressor required
- Great for furniture, cabinets, crafts
- 90 day warranty
- Requires 3 CFM at 90 psi
- Use with paints, stains, lacquers, and more
- Includes siphon gun, tube, 16-ounce Mason jar, jar gasket
- Gasket wears out fast
This siphon gun is a surprisingly good value. It allows you to convert one of those old canning jars you’ve got lying around into a paint container.
Use this paint sprayer to apply lacquers, stains, or paints with ease. You’ll need to mount the spray gun kit to a compressor for it to work properly, with a minimum requirement of ¾ HP.
This paint sprayer is best suited for spraying furniture, cabinets and crafts. If you have larger DIY projects, you will want to invest in a more heavy duty painter with larger capacity cups, better balance and more durable gaskets.
It is designed to work with 16-ounce jars, but you can adapt it to work with other models with a few minutes of work. If you already have the equipment, give this paint sprayer a try today and we think you’ll be quite pleased.
When you’re done using this siphon gun and you’ve cleaned it up appropriately, then the hook grip on the handle of the product can also double as a method for hanging the tool up in your workshop or garage.
The gasket does not have a long life. You’ll find the gasket wears out pretty quickly with this siphon gun.
You’ve got a couple of options for sealing your connection with the Mason jar when that happens. You can cut some wax paper out to create your own temporary gasket or you can use the product without a gasket. You can also buy this maintenance kit from Critter Spray to cover all your bases when it comes to maintenance.
Avoid using rubber gaskets if you’re using solvent finishes.
In return, you’ll receive a home paint sprayer that can handle lacquers, stains, and paints with relative ease for a great price. It can feel a little top heavy if you’re using a full Mason jar for your finishing work.
Works with most compressors
Uses recycled mason jars!
Short gasket life
Master Airbrush Professional
- 6 foot hose w/1/8 inch fittings
- 0.2, 0.3 and 0.5mm needles included
- Fast cleaning
- Dual Action
- Gravity Feed
- 1 year warranty
With 0.2mm, 0.3mm, and 0.5mm needles and nozzles, this is the hobby airbrush kit that you’ll want to use for precise results. The included tips allow you to spray extra fine detail and up to a 2 inch wide spray.
One of the standout features of this model is the open handle design, which makes cleaning and flushing much quicker compared to other airbrush systems in the same category.
It includes a fluid control knob that gives you the ability to fine-tune the paint output and spray pattern. The 1/3 ounce gravity-feed paint cup works well for delivering consistent coverage on small, detailed projects. The Master Airbrush Professional system also features a quick-connect coupler with an integrated airflow control valve for precise adjustments.
Trigger performance is smooth and responsive—there’s no sticking or stiffness, and the internal spring provides just the right amount of tension.
A 6-foot braided hose comes included, giving you flexibility and reach while working.
This gravity-feed airbrush is a solid choice for those learning detailed painting techniques or stepping into hobby-level projects like models, crafts, or custom work.
Recommended operating pressure ranges from 10 to 35 PSI depending on the level of detail required. Lower pressures are ideal for fine line work, while higher settings can be used for broader coverage.
Gravity Feed Model
Fast flushing and cleaning with cutaway handle
1 year warranty
Carrying case is convenient
No Compressor included
Instructions are not very detailed
Getting the Basics Right for Your Small Project
Using the best craft spray guns or mini paint sprayers can deliver pro-level results on small projects—if you follow the right techniques.
Whether you’re airbrushing models, decorating cakes, applying tanning solution, painting tattoos, customizing woodworking, or doing fine-detail automotive work, success starts with a few key fundamentals.
Match the Sprayer to the Project Type
Not all small project paint sprayers are created equal. Choose the correct spray gun or airbrush based on your project needs:
- Model painting and miniatures: Use fine-tip airbrushes for precision.
- Cake decorating: Choose food-safe airbrush kits with adjustable flow.
- Temporary tattoos and tanning: Opt for LVLP sprayers or airbrushes designed for delicate skin-safe applications.
- Woodworking and furniture: Look for HVLP sprayers with gravity feed for smooth finishes.
Master the Spray Pattern
- For larger small-scale projects like furniture or model vehicles, a sweeping motion works best.
- For fine detail or small crafts, a circular spray pattern with controlled, short bursts will give the cleanest results.
It is also important to remember that hobby paint sprayers tend to spray in a cone-shaped pattern instead of a fan-shaped pattern. If you’re too close to the surface, the paint will build up quickly and begin running since it over-saturates quickly.
It is usually better to start at a 12-inch distance and then work your way forward as needed.
Best Practice: Positioning and Technique
Always hold the sprayer perpendicular to your surface for even paint application and to avoid drips or runs. Spraying at an angle may cause uneven coverage and wasted paint.
As you work more with your craft sprayer, you’ll develop better muscle memory and technique, leading to more consistent and professional-looking finishes over time.
Features to Look for in the Best Craft Spray Gun
Easy to Adjust Fan Controls
Can spray at weird angles or upside down
Can spray a variety of materials
Fine Detail Tip
Painting crafts requires precision and attention to detail. You will need to make sure that the spray gun you buy has a fine detail tip.
Easy to Adjust Fan Controls
Controls that are positioned on the gun so you can make adjustments on the fly will increase the quality of your paint job. No one wants to fiddle with controls and be distracted while painting.
Can Spray at Weird Angles or Upside Down
Spraying crafts isn’t like spraying a wall. You have to paint at weird angles, into tiny little areas, with precision and skill. You want a spray gun that works in these situations and won’t ruin your project.
Materials
A craft spray gun that can spray all sorts of paints and materials is the best. It will save you having to buy multiples spray guns for all your projects.
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Airbrush Paint Guns
Airbrush paint guns are ideal tools for precision painting projects such as model kits, miniatures, nail art, temporary tattoos, tanning, cake decorating, and other craft applications.
Understanding how airbrush guns function and which paints to use will help you achieve clean, professional results.
How Do Airbrush Guns Work?
Most airbrushes spray in a fine cone-shaped pattern. When held still, this pattern appears as a dot. As you move the airbrush while pressing the trigger, that dot becomes a smooth, controlled line.
This motion is the foundation of all airbrush techniques. A great way to practice is to spray over a patterned paper towel. Try to replicate the design—it’s an excellent exercise to build muscle memory and improve control for detailed craft work.
What Kind of Paint do You use for Airbrushing?
Airbrush-ready paint is the best choice. These paints are specifically formulated to be thinner and flow smoothly through an airbrush without clogging.
High flow acrylics are another good option, even if not labeled specifically for airbrushing. These paints are designed to work with small nozzle sizes and maintain consistent spray quality.
Can You Use Regular Paint in an Airbrush?
If the label doesn’t say “airbrush” or “high flow,” it’s likely that thinning will be necessary. The best method is to use an acrylic-compatible paint thinner or a mix of distilled water and flow improver to reach the proper consistency.
For best results, check out a video tutorial showing how to thin acrylic paint for airbrushing. This ensures proper ratios and helps prevent spray issues.
Tip: Avoid using paints with large pigment particles or metallic flakes. These can clog your airbrush or damage its internal parts.
If the paint is not specifically labelled for airbrush guns, chances are you will have to thin it. Check out THIS VIDEO for the preferred thinning method.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Craft Spray Gun or Airbrush
4 Factors to Keep in Mind
- Dual Action Vs Single Action Vs Trigger Action Sprayer
- Beginner or Veteran?
- Internal Vs External Mix
- Coverage Vs Details
Dual Action Vs Single Action Vs Trigger Action Sprayer
Dual of double action is the most popular. Pushing the trigger down releases air and then pulling it backwards releases the paint flow. The more your pull, the more paint is released. This lets you control the amount of paint coming out of the airbrush and adjust it while painting.
Single action airbrush triggers control the airflow only. The paint flow is controlled independently by the needle and how deep it is. These sort of single action airbrushes come with a screw which adjusts the needle depth so you can adjust your paint flow. You would choose this type of sprayer if you are usually spraying the same amount of fluid or is many newbies are using a gun.
Trigger action, or pistol grip is shaped more like a bigger paint sprayer, with a gun-like trigger with controls both the air flow and the paint flow. Pulling back harder on the trigger releases more paint,
Beginners Vs Veteran Crafters
Which action you choose is ultimately up to you and what delivers you the best results. Most professional crafters rely on double action because they have more control over the output.
Beginners will have less to worry about and can focus on their paint technique instead of mastering their tools if they choose a single action airbrush.
If you’re not going to be painting your crafts a ton, check out a middle of the road single action airbrush to perfect your technique.
Best Craft Spray Guns : Internal Vs External Mix
With an internal mix airbrush the paint and air are mixed inside the cap at the tip of the head assembly. This atomizes the paint. Pros claim that the atomization of an internal mix airbrush is superior to an external mix, especially for fine detail work. And we agree.
External mix is exactly that, the paint and air mix outside the airbrush. The spray is a larger pattern, due to less atomization. This leads to a less detailed spray, and a spray that is not as consistent. Not so hot if your looking to use your airbrush for fine work.
Best Craft Spray Guns : Coverage Vs Details
If your projects require a ton of attention to detail, look at investing in an internal mix dual action for a nice soft spray which highlights details, giving you total control over the output. Think small scale models.
Spraying larger (but still small) projects like a small bookshelf, birdhouses, etc could benefit from a regular sized sprayer rather than an airbrush where coverage is more important than details. We recommend an HVLP for this because they are beginner friendly, affordable and spray a soft finish.
What Is the Best Painting Technique to Use when Using a DIY Paint Sprayer?
When using a paint spray gun for crafts and hobbies, there is a basic technique that should be used to generate consistent results.
- Turn on the air. You’ll want to turn the air or pressure on your unit first.
- Turn on the paint. Once the air is moving, the paint will apply with better consistency and less splatter.
- Turn off the paint. When you’ve finished painting, turn off the paint first to avoid extra splatter.
- Turn off the air. You’ll reduce the chances of sputtering when the paint source is stopped while the air is still running.
Because many of the units in this category are quite small compared to interior or exterior models, the margin of error is much smaller.
These small sprayers and airbrushes are not forgiving. Most of the problems that happen occur when there are unexpected changes to the air pressure.
And most air pressure changes occur when you turn your equipment on or off when working on a project.
To keep your work safe, it is also a good idea to use a test sheet for the starting and stopping process. The risks of a splatter are much smaller using this technique, but still possible.
When you keep your motions separate in the starting and stopping, you’ll avoid making dots that indicate where you started each line within your work.
Do I Need to Be an Artist to Use a Paint Sprayer or Air Brushes?
Absolutely not. You don’t need to be an artist or have advanced painting skills to use a paint sprayer or airbrush. Many hobbyists and DIYers avoid trying these tools because they think they’re not “good enough” or worry about making mistakes.
But the truth is, paint sprayers and airbrushes are beginner-friendly—especially when you choose a model designed for ease of use.
For beginners, it’s best to avoid overly detailed airbrush kits or sprayers that are designed for precision work. Instead, choose a simple model that helps you build confidence.
Look for tools that make it easy to blend, correct overspray, and manage paint flow. Having some flexibility in your tool can help you recover from small mistakes and improve your technique over time.
If you’re more experienced with crafts, painting, or airbrushing, you may be ready for models designed for fine detail work. These tools offer more control and precision but can be more challenging to learn without experience.
One of the biggest advantages of using a paint sprayer or airbrush is how versatile they are. You can use:
- Stencils to create detailed graphics or repeating patterns
- Painter’s tape to block off clean lines and geometric designs
- Various surfaces, including paper, plastic, wood, metal, and even fabric
With a little practice, you’ll find that paint sprayers and airbrushes can be a fun and accessible way to create custom designs, finish projects faster, and achieve professional-looking results—whether you’re working on crafts, furniture, DIY decor, or even automotive work.
What is an Airbrush Used For?
The designs in this category are some of the most versatile in our industry today, even though they are also some of the smallest sprayers at the same time. You won’t paint an entire wall, but you could create a mural.
You might not paint a kitchen table, but you could paint a baseball cap, a shirt, or a small canvas.
Some of the models in this category have even been adapted to be used as a cosmetics applicator.
You can use an airbrush to paint anything that requires a ton of attention to detail. The pros would use airbrushing to custom paint designs on motorcycles and cars. Model planes, trains and cars, Christmas crafts and lettering/stencils are all great things for an airbrush.
You don’t need to think of yourself as an artist to take advantage of what the best craft spray guns can provide you. The only requirements are that you must have an open mind and be willing to learn something new.
What Projects can You Complete with a Craft Sprayer?
The amount of projects you can paint with a craft sprayer is only limited by your imagination. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Toys
- Cakes
- Clothing
- Tattoos
- Tanning
- Models
- Cosmetic Applicator
- Custom Vehicle Designs
What to Budget for Small Project Paint Sprayers
Most of the best craft spray guns in this category are priced under $100. These models are suitable for the weekend warrior or those who are just starting out on their side hustle.
If you’ve already turned your crafting skills into a profitable business venture, then you’ll need to step up your painting game. Professional studio sprayers begin around $150 and can be priced as high as $500.
With the premium price comes premium features. You are not restricted by the type of paint to use for most models.
You’ll be able to work in multiple mediums. You’ll also have more precision without compromising your portability.
What are the Best Craft Spray Guns for Small Projects
This depends on your budget and project needs.
If you’re planning on staying within a reasonable budget range, we recommend the HomeRight Super Finish Max because of its ability to spray a ton of materials and projects, easy to clean and comes with multiple nozzles.
Stepping it up a notch means grabbing the Fuji Hobby Pro 2 HVLP Turbine System. It delivers a professional soft finish with minimal overspray and has its own turbine system, meaning you don’t need an air compressor.
3 Types of Feeds: Gravity, Siphon and Side
Gravity feed uses gravity to pull paint down into the paint nozzle from the paint cup. We like gravity feed systems, because the paint flow and consistency of the spray produces smooth results. Its great for finer details.
Siphon feed is a gun that pulls the paint up through the gun. We don’t like this type, air seems to get into the paint and produces spatters and not consistent results.
Side feed guns are a mix of both gravity feed and siphon feed guns. Depending on the paint level compared to the nozzles tip, it will act as either type. If the paint level is above the needle, its gravity feed, if its below, then it acts as a siphon feed.
Cleaners for Airbrush Sprayers
We recommend the Iwata-Medea Airbrush cleaner solution for cleaning your airbrush guns.
Conclusion
The best craft spray guns are used by hobbyists, crafters, and DIY experts. They don’t need to be overpowering to be useful. They just need to get the job done. You’ll find that these are the best models to do just that.
- Best Craft Spray Guns Quick Comparison Chart
- Best Craft Spray Guns for Hobbies and Small Jobs
- Editor's Choice Premium Craft Spray Gun
- Fuji Hobby Pro
- Badger Air Brush Model 105
- Editor's Choice: One of the Best Craft Spray Guns
- HomeRight Super Finish Max
- Master Airbrush: Best Airbrush Kit
- Campbell Hausfeld
- Best Hobby Paint Sprayer Kit
- Paasche VL Airbrush
- Paasche H-Set Single Action
- Best Budget Craft Spray Guns
- Wagner Stationary Studio PLUS Sprayer
- Critter Spray Products
- Master Airbrush Professional
- Getting the Basics Right for Your Small Project
- Features to Look for in the Best Craft Spray Gun
- Join our Email List for more Tips and Info!
- Airbrush Paint Guns
- What Kind of Paint do You use for Airbrushing?
- Can You Use Regular Paint in an Airbrush?
- Things to Consider When Buying the Best Craft Spray Gun or Airbrush
- Dual Action Vs Single Action Vs Trigger Action Sprayer
- Beginners Vs Veteran Crafters
- Best Craft Spray Guns : Internal Vs External Mix
- Best Craft Spray Guns : Coverage Vs Details
- What Is the Best Painting Technique to Use when Using a DIY Paint Sprayer?
- Do I Need to Be an Artist to Use a Paint Sprayer or Air Brushes?
- What is an Airbrush Used For?
- What Projects can You Complete with a Craft Sprayer?
- What to Budget for Small Project Paint Sprayers
- What are the Best Craft Spray Guns for Small Projects
- 3 Types of Feeds: Gravity, Siphon and Side
- Cleaners for Airbrush Sprayers
- Conclusion
- Quick FAQs
Quick FAQs
No, mostly hobbyists use craft sprayers.
















Thanks John, will purchase the Senco unit via your link.
Will be after the holidays.
Certainly appreciate the prompt response and all your help.
Thanks, Bob
Glad to be of help, take care Bob and happy painting.
~John
Great comments, I just ordered The Campbell Hausfeld Spray Gun Kit. Now I need a compressor.
Can you tell me if this spray gun kit is compatible with the Master Airbrush Compressor 1/5 HP Cool
Runner 11.
Many thanks
Hey Robert, Thanks for reading. The Campbell Hausfeld Kit comes with 2 guns. When pairing a compressor to a spray gun, it’s important to know the SCFMs that your spray gun needs to properly atomize paint for best results. The kit you purchased, each gun has different SCFM requirements. 1 of the guns is 2.1 and the other is 0.7. The Master Airbrush puts out 0.8 SCFMs so it can JUST meet the SCFM requirement of the 0.7 SCFM gun but nowhere near the 2.1 SCFM requirement of the second gun. We have an in depth post where we outline and compare 10 air compressors and the things to look for when buying one, follow the link, you should find what you need there for around the same price as the Master Airbrush.
~Thanks, John