An airbrush can be a very effective way of decorating your homemade cake creations. The airbrush can be used to create jaw dropping colourful designs on your cakes. In order to apply airbrush colour you will need a complete airbrush system, which includes the air compressor, airbrush, filters, nozzles, airbrush colours and more.
Step One
Compressor - The air compressor is the machine that produces the pressure to use the airbrush. There are no special compressors specifically for cake decorating as compressors used for tanning spas, painting and for make-up can also be used. A bleed regulator is important for being able to control the air flow. Some airbrushes will come with a compressor, while it is also possible to purchase the compressor and airbrush separately. Make sure the compressor provides the necessary pressure you need for your cake decorating.
Step Two
Colours - It is important to use airbrush colours that are food grade and designed specifically for airbrushing. Liquid or liquid paste colours contain cellulose that will damage the airbrush with repeated use. There are colour sets available for cake decorating. It is best to start out with small bottles of colour. When you know which colours you use most often, you can purchase larger bottles of these colours. It is also a good idea to purchase some airbrush cleaner, to clean the airbrush between colours.
Step Three
Moisture Trap - A moisture trap and filter on the airbrush system is very important. This trap is a clear device located midway along the airbrush hose. It traps any moisture that is emitted from the air compressor. If this moisture should travel up the tube and reach the airbrush, a large splat of colour will come out which can ruin your cake decoration. The trap will collect all the moisture and needs to be emptied when it becomes full.
Step Four
Airbrush Patterns - You can use an airbrush pattern to create cake decorations or you can do freehand designs. There are many airbrush patterns that can be purchased for use on cakes. You can even create your own by making a stencil, as that is what airbrush patterns are. You can also use airbrushes to enhance the decorations already on the cake, such as adding colours and dimensions to icing or sugar paste flowers. Brown colours can be used to add shadow to skin, and red can be used to colour lips for an airbrushed portrait on a cake.