What it is: Paint that lands outside the intended area
Overspray is paint that goes beyond your intended target area — either carried by air currents or simply because the spray cone is wider than your target. It’s an inherent characteristic of airbrush work, not a malfunction, and managing it is a core part of airbrush technique.
Managing overspray:
- Work closer to the surface for more concentrated spray.
- Use lower air pressure (reduces the spray cone spread).
- Use masking or frisket to protect surrounding areas.
- Use a spray booth or shield to contain overspray and protect your workspace.
- Be aware of background colors when working freehand — light overspray from dark colors onto lighter areas can subtly shift tones.
In scale modeling and miniature painting: Overspray is sometimes used deliberately — thin, misted overspray in one color over another area can unify tones or create atmospheric effects.
Related: Masking · Frisket · PSI · Atomization