Airbrush Step by Step Magazine Issue 81

RichPen Phoenix 222B: A Hidden Gem Among High-End Airbrushes

One of the most interesting equipment reviews in this issue focuses on the RichPen Phoenix 222B, a precision airbrush manufactured in Japan.

Although RichPen has been manufacturing airbrushes for decades, the brand has remained relatively unfamiliar to many artists outside Japan. The Phoenix 222B represents the company's return to the spotlight, offering a premium-quality instrument designed for artists who demand exceptional control and fine detail.

The magazine explores the airbrush's construction, performance, and unique features, including:

• 0.2 mm nozzle designed for precise, fine-detail spraying.
• Internal paint mixing for smooth atomization and controlled application.
• Integrated air-flow regulator for convenient airflow adjustments.
• Adjustable trigger tension and preset control to customize the painting experience.
• PTFE needle seal suitable for solvent-based and water-based airbrush paints.
• Japanese manufacturing and precision engineering.

During testing, the reviewer highlights the Phoenix 222B's extremely fine and controllable atomization, which makes it particularly well-suited for detailed illustrations, fine lines, and carefully controlled shading.

The review also discusses cleaning, maintenance, nozzle design, and potential limitations, providing practical information for experienced artists considering a premium detail airbrush.

The verdict? The magazine describes the RichPen Phoenix 222B as a high-performance detail airbrush with premium build quality and extensive adjustment options. It's an interesting alternative for artists exploring professional Japanese airbrushes beyond the most familiar brands.

Fake Iwata Airbrushes: How to Avoid Counterfeit Products

Another must-read article in Issue 81 addresses a growing concern in the airbrush industry: counterfeit Iwata airbrushes.

With more airbrush equipment being purchased through Amazon, eBay, Walmart Marketplace, and other online platforms, customers need to be increasingly careful about where they shop.

The magazine explains how counterfeiters have been copying popular Iwata products, including models from the Iwata Eclipse series. Some counterfeit airbrushes are sold under different names, while others imitate genuine Iwata branding and packaging.

Unfortunately, these imitations can be difficult to identify at first glance.

How to spot a fake Iwata airbrush

The article provides visual comparisons and helpful tips for identifying suspicious products:

1. Verify the seller. Purchase from an authorized Iwata dealer whenever possible. A professional-looking listing or familiar online marketplace does not automatically guarantee authenticity.

2. Check the hologram. Genuine Iwata packaging features a security hologram. The magazine compares authentic and counterfeit versions, including differences in their appearance and positioning.

3. Inspect the packaging seals. Authentic products use specific transparent circular seals. The article illustrates differences between genuine packaging and suspicious imitations.

4. Examine the engraving. Genuine Iwata airbrushes have precise, cleanly engraved branding. Counterfeit products may feature inconsistent, rough, or poorly executed lettering.

The magazine includes side-by-side photographs that make these details easier to recognize.

Why this matters: Counterfeit airbrushes may resemble premium equipment externally without delivering the same manufacturing quality, consistency, or performance.

For artists investing in professional airbrush equipment, purchasing from an authorized dealer remains one of the best ways to protect that investment.

Choose an Official Iwata Crown Dealer

Iwata rates its official Crown Dealers by product assortment: Platinum carries all products, Gold carries a vast range, Silver carries a broad range, and Bronze carries an essential range.

SprayGunner is an Iwata Platinum Crown Dealer, offering only authentic Iwata airbrushes, parts, and supplies.

NO-NAME Portable Airbrush Compressor: Battery Power for Artists on the Go

One of the featured equipment articles introduces the NO-NAME Portable Airbrush Compressor, a compact, rechargeable compressor designed to make airbrushing more convenient and mobile.

Traditional airbrush compressors typically require a nearby power outlet, making them less practical for traveling artists, workshops, demonstrations, or painting sessions away from a dedicated studio.

The NO-NAME portable compressor aims to change that.

Featuring a compact black-and-orange design, an integrated rechargeable battery, and adjustable air pressure, this compressor provides a flexible solution for artists who want to paint without being tied to a stationary setup.

Key features highlighted in the magazine

• 8,000 mAh rechargeable battery for cordless operation.
• Adjustable air pressure from approximately 8–50 PSI (0.6–3.5 bar).
• Removable battery for convenient charging and potential replacement.
• USB-C charging for added convenience.
• Compact, portable design with a carrying strap for mobile use.
• 1/8-inch air hose connection for compatible airbrush equipment.
• Digital battery charge indicator to help monitor remaining power.
• Stationary or wearable operation, allowing artists to use the compressor on a workbench or carry it while working.

According to the magazine, the manufacturer claims up to 80 minutes of continuous operation with the automatic start-stop function, while intermittent operation can extend the practical runtime.

The reviewer also tests the compressor with an airbrush, examining its pressure output, portability, and suitability for different painting applications.

A surprisingly capable portable compressor

An especially interesting part of the review is the compressor's claimed compatibility with airbrushes using nozzle sizes from approximately 0.15 mm to 0.4 mm.

This makes it a potentially versatile option for miniature painting, fine illustration, model building, and other detail-oriented applications.

The reviewer notes that the compressor provides relatively quiet operation and sufficient pressure for a range of airbrushing tasks. The article also offers practical recommendations on adjusting pressure for finer details versus larger spray patterns.

The magazine concludes that the NO-NAME Portable Airbrush Compressor makes a promising impression thanks to its combination of mobility, battery capacity, and pressure capabilities.

For artists who attend conventions, teach workshops, travel frequently, or simply want a less restrictive painting setup, this is an equipment review worth reading.

More Airbrush Equipment and Industry News

Issue 81 doesn't stop with these three highlights. Readers will also find information about several other products and developments.

The Harder & Steenbeck Giraldez Infinity CRplus MKII 2-in-1 receives attention as an expanded version of the airbrush developed in collaboration with renowned miniature artist Angel Giraldez. The article discusses the addition of a second nozzle and larger paint cup, offering new possibilities for fine-detail and broader painting applications.

Other news includes the Sparmax Flyer X, Kroma Edge paints, Schmincke promotions, and a reference book dedicated to dragons.

Incredible Step-by-Step Airbrush Tutorials

Beyond equipment reviews, the heart of Airbrush Step by Step remains its inspiring artwork and detailed technical instruction.

This issue features three particularly distinctive projects.

The Death of Papa Smurf – Delicious Hyperrealism

French artist Hubert de Lartigue shares his extraordinary hyperrealistic artwork featuring colorful gummy candy.

The tutorial explores how to recreate translucent surfaces, glossy reflections, subtle color transitions, and convincing textures. Readers can follow the process behind a painting that looks remarkably close to a high-resolution photograph.

Ruler of the Wilderness – Airbrushing a Lion on Feathers

German artist Thomas Olczyk demonstrates an unusual and beautiful application of airbrushing: painting a realistic lion portrait across two turkey feathers.

This project combines intricate fur textures, delicate stencil work, fine facial details, and colorful effects while working on an unconventional natural surface.

The tutorial offers valuable insight into surface preparation, creating realistic fur, and gradually building details with controlled airbrush techniques.

Fuzzy Stripes – The Art of Fluffy Pinstriping

American artist Jeff “Styles” Overman introduces readers to a creative variation of traditional pinstriping.

Combining precise brushwork with soft, textured effects, fluffy pinstriping offers an interesting way to add depth and personality to decorative artwork.

Airbrush Competition Winners and Community Highlights

This issue also celebrates the broader international airbrush community.

The Iwata x Sparmax 2026 International Airbrush Competition showcases winning entries across five categories, highlighting outstanding artwork from talented artists.

Another feature revisits 30 years of European airbrush show history, with organizers Hugo Vervliet and Daisy van den Bergh reflecting on more than 60 events across four countries.

Readers can also explore coverage of Fantasy World of Airbrush 2026, which brought artists together in Germany for exhibitions, demonstrations, and creative exchanges.

These stories offer a glimpse into the people, events, and artistic achievements that continue to shape the airbrush community.

Is Airbrush Step by Step Issue 81 Worth Reading?

Whether you're interested in discovering new airbrush equipment, improving your painting techniques, or keeping up with industry developments, Airbrush Step by Step Magazine No. 81 offers plenty to explore.

The RichPen Phoenix 222B review provides insight into a lesser-known premium Japanese airbrush, the counterfeit Iwata article delivers important purchasing advice, and the NO-NAME portable compressor review examines a convenient alternative to traditional stationary compressors.

Combine those features with detailed tutorials, exceptional artwork, international competition winners, and community coverage, and you have an issue packed with inspiration and practical knowledge.

Airbrush Step by Step No. 81 – Attention to Detail is an excellent addition to any airbrush enthusiast's reading collection.

Explore the magazine and discover new tools, techniques, and ideas for your next airbrush project.

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