How to empty rattle cans safely- by Peter peter@escalemodels.com

Rattle can lacquers come in great colours, they dry quickly and hard but the air pressure can be hard to regulate. An airbrush is arguably the best tool to lay down a perfect paint job, but how do you get the paint out of the rattle can and into your airbrush in a safe manner?

I use some common items to safely remove the paint from the can without making a mess.

Note:- Never puncture a rattle can as they remain pressurised and can cause sever injury.

Tools and Products Required

Firstly, you will need a paint nozzle that comes with a fine applicator. You can find these on some fine oil sprays like WD40. Use a new nozzle or thoroughly clean a used one as the oil will cause problems with your paint jobs.

• Nozzle and Fine applicator

• Masking Tape

• Rattle can of paint

• Airbrush Bottle

Remove the cap from the paint jar and tightly seal the jar with the masking tape.

Pull the original nozzle from the rattle can and place the nozzle with the fine applicator onto the can.

Puncture the masking tape with the applicator, this will give a nice tight seal.

Gently press down on the nozzle, the paint makes it's way down the applicator into the jar. Pay close attention to the level of paint in the jar to ensure that it does not over fill. Wait for the bubbles to die down and repeat this step until you have enough paint in the can.

Gently pull the tape off the bottle and replace with original cap. You may want to gently stir the paint but be extremely careful as the trapped gas may bubble quickly and spill over the edge. I don't stir but let the paint sit for about 10 minutes for the gas to escape naturally and slowly. There you have it. No fuss, no mess.