For those starting their own airbrush workshop , the right equipment is absolutely necessary. For most artists, a double action airbrush is a must. Designed for optimal control, the double action airbrush creates a more even flow of paint than its counterpart, the single action airbrush. Single action airbrushes are adequate for quick and inexpensive spray-paint jobs, but they lack the ability to generate realistic-looking art projects.

The process behind the dual action airbrush is simple. By using the triggers, one can control both the flow of air and the entry of paint into the air stream. Not only does this allow for varying thickness and blend, but it also allows the user to start and end the stroke with a clean stream of air, ensuring that the next stroke will not be marred by paint residue inside the gun.

Airbrushing involves being able to adapt to a wide variety of styles and subjects. Getting photographic-level realism requires a high amount of specialization, and having the right airbrush equipment is always necessary for an optimal look. Details on how to get the most out of airbrushing equipment can be found in instructional materials such as books and DVDs , with titles such as "Advanced Custom Painting Techniques" and "The Big Book of Airbrush: Basic Techniques and Materials."

The best-selling piece of airbrush equipment is, naturally, the reservoir. The average airbrush artist will need reservoirs of different sizes and dimensions. Eventually the paint gets hard to clean out, so having extras is important. For an airbrush to work, the reservoir must be compatible with the body of the airbrush; this is why most artists prefer to purchase equipment made by the same brand. Popular airbrush equipment brands include Spray Gun Solutions and Iwata.