I just bought a Paasche VL double action air brush set (I know everybody likes the Aztek, but this is what my local hobby store carries) and a Craftsman 2 gallon compressor. I had a single action Badger years ago but never got the hang of airbrushing. I've read quite a few of the air brush threads here and elsewhere and the set comes with a little guide to air brushing, so I guess I'm set to start. I thought before I get really into it, I'd ask for other advice, such as storing the extra needles / tips, work space considerations etc. The little stuff that might not be obvious when preparing a work area (in other words trying to learn from others misfortunes). Also any thoughts on using a non hobby compressor, I read enough to know to get one with a tank, I've also heard a water trap is advisable, where would I find one of those, is it a hobby thing? Orchard Supply (where I bought the compressor) didn't carry them. BTW anybody looking for a compressor the Craftsman was $119, comes with a fairly good set of adaptors, air chucks, hose etc, its pretty small (probably 14" tall, 14" long and 8" deep, weighs 30 pounds or so), its not super loud and has a 1 year full warranty.

Thanks for any suggestions and all advice is welcome (air brush techniques, work space suggestions, air brush horror stories etc). I plan to use water based paints (mostly a mix of crafts paints, model master and Tamiya).

well make sure you are highly ventilated

use a spray booth if you can if you are using water paints look @ the digital diamonds from kfmgee he shows how 2 make a spray booth.

and techniques well practise practise practise. their are some referrence video's
but then again looking @ something doesnt make you picasso practise will

and horror stories well. just be sure to CLEAN yr airbrush after every use....
:)
good luck