I'm currently contemplating purchasing an airbrush and I was wondering wether or not the compressed air canisters had an odour, do they have a strong solvent smell or is the expelled air ok? I ask this because I don't have the best ventilation where I do the models and I don't want to go poisoning myself, I'm considering buying a compressor but I may just get the canned air to begin with to save some cash.

Welcome to the site!

There is no odor that I remember. If memory serves it is merely compressed CO² gas. Of course once you start spraying fine particles of paint in the air then you may definately have an odor.

My advice would be both a modest painting booth and a compressor when your budget permits.

Cheers,
Jim

i recommend tamiya's sprayworks spray booth its small and portable (i take it everywhere i'm gonna be a few days, even use it when showing how to use the brush) and around $100, i suggest going to your shop and special ordering one. next i recommend sears foranyone thinking of a compressor. i have a craftsman compressor with an 8 gallon receiver, works great especially around kid naptimes. good hunting stug

For all airbrush users - beginners and experts - try doing this: http://www.ipmsstockholm.org/magazine/2000/04/stuff_airbrush_cleaner.htm

I have and it works!